WEST CHESTER, PA — Aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and innovators are being invited to turn bold concepts into viable businesses as West Chester University opens entries for its 14th Annual Business Idea Challenge, a competition designed to spark innovation and push new ideas toward commercialization.
The challenge, hosted by the University’s Cottrell Entrepreneurship Center, is now accepting submissions for original ideas that have not yet been commercialized and could serve as the foundation for a new business. Entries are due by Friday, February 28, and competitors will vie for a total of $11,500 in prize money.
Organizers said the competition is built to encourage idea generation while connecting participants with real-world business expertise and potential pathways to market.
The event is co-hosted by the Cottrell Entrepreneurship Center, Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic, and the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce, with Meridian Bank returning as the presenting sponsor. Additional partners include SCORE of Chester & Delaware County and i2n, an initiative of the Chester County Economic Development Council.
Submissions will be reviewed by business angels and professional advisors, with top ideas advancing to a second-round fast-pitch video submission. The strongest entries will move on to a final, in-person pitch competition scheduled for Wednesday, April 15.
Judging will be handled by business experts, Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic angel investors, and members of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce. Winners will be announced and awards presented at the conclusion of the final round.
The competition features four tracks: West Chester University undergraduates; WCU graduate students, alumni, faculty, and staff; early-stage startups; and Chester County high school students.
Participants will be asked to clearly explain their proposed product, service, or technology, with an emphasis on what makes the idea unique and who the target market would be.
Awards include a $2,500 grand prize, $1,500 first-place prizes in each track, and $750 second-place prizes in each track.
Additional details and submission instructions are available at http://www.wcubizideas.com/.
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