The Penn State EdTech Network announced that its BIG IDEA Contest is now accepting entries. The contest, powered by Ben Franklin Technology Partners and co-sponsored by Penn State’s Small Business Development Center, is seeking applications from edtech entrepreneurs, teachers, students, and area software developers.
The Penn State EdTech Network promotes active collaboration among companies and Penn State students, faculty, staff, and alumni to foster the development of transformational educational technology. The network is a part of Pennsylvania State University President Eric Barron’s $30 million Invent Penn State initiative. The initiative aims to spur job creation, economic development, and student career success by bringing together researchers and innovators with those who can help bring their discoveries to the marketplace.
“We are looking for people who are passionate about developing and bringing to market products, services, or solutions that improve learning and drive student success. We believe that there are good ideas right here in our backyard that, with support and assistance, could become the next great ed tech innovation,” said Daren Coudriet, Penn State EdTech Network Entrepreneur-in-Residence.
To be eligible to apply for the BIG IDEA Contest, you must:
- Be located in Pennsylvania.
- Be developing or commercializing a new, innovative “ed tech” concept or product.
- Have a company that is pre-revenue or has not generated more than $500,000 in sales in either 2015 or 2016.
- Have fewer than 25 employees.
To apply, fill out the questionnaire at http://bigidea.benfranklin.org. The contest will have three winners. The first-place award is $35,000, second place will receive $7,500, and the third-place winner gets $2,500. The deadline to apply is Jan. 9, 2017.
