Big Idea Columbus
What is Big Idea Columbus?
There’s an idea. There’s a panel of “sharks”. There’s also an audience, access to resources, and money.
Big Idea is our version of Shark Tank. Ideas are submitted in advance, narrowed down to a group of finalists, and ideas are pitched LIVE in front of an audience and panel of judges. Pitches must be two minutes or less. Each pitch is followed by a Q&A.
Top ideas will win access and discounts to key resources, business coaching, planning services, and start up money to launch their business in Columbus. Our panel of judges determines the top five, and the audience determines who takes home the top three cash prizes.
What ideas are we looking for?
Business or product ideas that you want to make happen! We are looking for creative and innovative ideas that could thrive in Columbus. It can be a brand new idea or an idea that was inspired by something you have seen somewhere else. We just want those that want to pursue their idea to step up and submit.
Do you need a business plan?
No. Your idea could be in the infant stages and you want to see what others think or it could be at maturity and you just need a little seed money and resources to get your idea off the ground.
Submission
Deadline: TBA
Big Idea Columbus is happening on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
Frequently asked questions
When is it?
Big Idea Columbus is happening on Thursday, November 14, 2024.
What ideas are accepted?
Business or product ideas for Columbus. It can be retail-based, technology driven, a product invention, food service, service-based, etc. The sky is the limit.
When does the idea submission open and close?
TBA
Who can submit?
You must be 19 years or older to submit an idea. If you are not 19 or older and if your idea is accepted, we will need your parent’s permission. We encourage students, locals, retirees, veterans, and anywhere in between to submit an idea.
Are there prizes?
Yes. All finalists receive something including gift bags, access to professional services and startup cash. Plus, the networking and connections you receive at this event is invaluable.
Can I submit more than one idea?
Yes, you can submit more than one idea. However, you can only pitch one idea. So, the preliminary judges will know if multiple ideas were submitted by one person and only be able to move one idea forward in the competition. If you have an idea that you favor over the other, submit that idea and save the other for next time.
Other questions
Contact the Columbus Entrepreneurship Center Coordinator, Kelli Faltys, at kellifaltys@cccneb.edu.
Big Idea Columbus is organized and supported by 91做厙’s Entrepreneurship Center and Columbus-In-Action.