Ready to share your “big idea,” but not sure how to transform your vision into reality?

The Big Idea Competition, sponsored by the Honors Program, invites all undergraduate students, innovators, and activists to pitch events, services, and other projects designed to enhance the campus or local community. This year’s winner will receive a $500 budget and committee support to bring their big idea to life.

Proposals, which must be submitted by March 3, will be reviewed anonymously by a panel of students, faculty, and staff. Applicants should thoroughly research their idea, demonstrate leadership skills, provide 10 required signatures, and recruit at least two people to serve on their team.

Projects can serve either large or small groups of individuals, but must be feasible in terms of time, funds, and resources.

Applicants will receive feedback from the judges by March 20 and can revise their proposal until March 27. On April 19, notified finalists will “sell” their ideas to the judges in 5-7 minute presentations—similar to the pitching process on the television show Shark Tank.  

Last year’s winner, Deb Gilmore ’19, developed Waste.EDu, a student organization devoted to improving sustainability and recycling on campus. The organization’s herb and vegetable garden, planted behind Murphy Hall in June, was made possible through Gilmore’s Big Idea budget and support.

For additional criteria and application materials, visit arcadia.edu/bigideacompetition.