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Competitions

11th Annual Innovative Idea Competition

Purpose:  The Innovative Idea Competition encourages students, faculty, staff and alumni to generate ideas for launching exciting and sustainable new businesses. Note: All ideas remain the property of the submitter and are held in the strictest of confidence.

Am I eligible? Yes, if you’re a student, faculty, alumni or staff at Temple. This is a "cross campus" contest -- all majors are encouraged to compete.

What do I need to do?  Describe your idea in two pages or less.   Entries should include the following:

  • What problem does your product or service solve, or what new need does your product or service fulfill?
  • Describe your new product or service – how is it unique or different?
  • How big is the market for your product or service?  Who is your target customer? How will you sell your product or service to them?
  • What competition exists for your new product or service?  Why gives your product or service an advantage?

When are the ideas due?  Wednesday, October 8, 2008 by 5 pm – no extensions!

What are the categories?  There are just two.  You can compete in the undergraduate category or in the graduate / faculty / alumni / staff category.

What’s in it for me?  CASH and Microsoft products of your choice!

  • Grand Prize: $1,000 cash plus $1,500 in Microsoft products
  • First Place in each category: $500 plus $500 in Microsoft products
  • Second Place in each category: $250 plus $250 in Microsoft products

Any tips?  The best ideas stand out immediately and result in others saying “Why didn’t I think of that?!”   Many are quite simple. Use concise language.  Present a well-organized and persuasive document.  Judges are impressed by great ideas and research that supports why a new business idea makes sense and will be well received by customers.

Any requirements?  Maximum copy length of two pages using typed, single-spaced 12 pt Arial font.  Submit via email to iei@temple.edu no later than October 8 by 5 p.m. Please indicate in your email if you are competing in the undergraduate or graduate/faculty/alumni/staff category and specify your home school (College of Engineering, Tyler School of Art, College of Liberal Arts, etc.).

Don’t forget to register for the awards ceremony and reception on Tuesday, October 14 at 3-6pm in Shusterman Hall.

Register Here for the Awards Ceremony and Reception