University Economic Development Association

Network

Innovation Challenge

Award Category: Innovation
Project Site: Innovation Challenge
Submitted By: California State University Long Beach
Contact: Forouzan Golshani , 562.985.5123

Abstract

The Innovation Challenge is dedicated to developing and inspiring a robust spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation at California State University Long Beach, giving students from throughout the university a unique opportunity to develop the skills needed to launch a new business, and expanding CSULB’s reach as a provider of entrepreneurial education. Each year, students are invited to form teams, attend educational workshops, and work with a mentor to take their business ideas from concept to reality. Four finalist teams are selected, and invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, with the top team taking away up to $50,000 in funding and services to launch their startup. Since its establishment in 2011, the Innovation Challenge has extended entrepreneurial knowledge to hundreds and supported creation of eight new businesses.

Finalist Presentation

UEDA Awards of Excellence Finalists presented at the Annual Summit in Long Beach on October 2-3, 2017. Summit attendees then voted for the best initiative in each category.