Big Ideas for an Unprecedented Year

November 9, 2020

2020 has been a challenging and stressful year in so many ways. COVID-19 has affected the entire world, exposing inadequate public health systems and causing disproportionate impacts based on economic class, existing health conditions, physical environments, and race.

Yet amidst so much uncertainty and turmoil, there is unprecedented opportunity for change. We have the capacity to envision and create a new world that is more just, prioritizes climate concerns, addresses poverty and hunger, and improves economic and social equality. If there was ever a time when your innovative and bold ideas are needed, it is now.

So, what’s your Big Idea?

As a college student, there is absolutely no better time than now to think about what matters to you—and to build your idea into something tangible; something real. It is no surprise that some of the most innovative companies and social enterprises were created by college students. You have extraordinary access to classes, programs, co-curricular workshops and supportive advisors who are enthusiastic to help you succeed. You have a ready-made pool of talented fellow students from many different disciplines and diverse backgrounds to build your team. Most importantly, you have the energy and fresh ideas that are needed now more than ever to tackle the most challenging issues facing our society. So, if you have an idea and it’s there nagging at you, what are you waiting for?

At Big Ideas, we are committed to helping you with your early-stage, social-impact innovation. We have four weeks left until the November 20th application deadline! In over 10 years, the Big Ideas Contest has awarded 500 winning teams a total of $2.5 million in prizes. Big Ideas participants have the chance to win up to $20,000 in awards, receive mentorship and extensive feedback from judges, and access valuable development workshops and networking opportunities.

Three-page applications are due November 20th at 1:00 pm PST. Check out our website for more information on this year’s application requirements and details on how to apply, or sign up for a 1-on-1 advising session with a Big Ideas advisor to talk through your idea and see if it is a good fit.

Are you still on the fence? Well, don’t take it from us– listen to Big Ideas alumni!

“The entire Big Ideas process, from start to finish, led us to ask tough questions early on and hold ourselves accountable beyond the world of academia.”

“The Big Ideas Contest was an amazing adventure, which really helped me transform a somehow crazy idea into a promising social enterprise.“

“Big Ideas ends up being much more than an award, because it gives you that confidence to go forward. As soon as we got the news we had won, that was the first time we said, ‘Hey, let’s give up what we we’re doing and follow our passion.’”

“Big Ideas has pushed our business forward in ways we could have never imagined. In just a few months, we went from a couple guys selling fish to a formal company ready for launch.”

“The Big Ideas process turned our idea into a plan. Big Ideas challenges participants to develop innovative yet feasible solutions to society's gnarliest issues. Big Ideas has opened doors to additional funding and growth opportunities. ”

Time is running out! Apply now to the Big Ideas Contest!

If there was ever a time to think big and be bold, now is the time. Apply to get mentorship and funding for your Big Idea!

Apply!