Big Idea Columbus
What is Big Idea Columbus?
It is our version of Shark Tank! Ideas are submitted prior to the live pitch event and the finalists compete to win money and resources to make their idea a realty. The ideas are narrowed down to a group of finalists and those finalists pitch their ideas LIVE in front of an audience and panel of judges. Pitches must be 2 minutes or less. Each pitch is followed by a Q&A. The judges will determine the top five finalists and popular vote (yes, the audience) will determine who takes home the top 3 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?
Nope! 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: Friday, October 29 at midnight
The Live Pitch Event: Tuesday, November 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Friedhof Building, 1270 27th Avenue, Columbus
Frequently asked questions
When is it?
Big Idea Columbus is happening on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 (National Entrepreneurs Day) at the Friedhof Building, 1270 27th Avenue, downtown Columbus. Social will start at 5:30 p.m. and the pitches will start at 6:30 p.m.
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?
Idea submissions will open on Monday, September 29th and close on Friday, October 29th at midnight.
Who can submit?
You must be 19 years or older to submit an idea. Not 19 or older? 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.
Will this be in-person?
Yes, at the Friedhof Building in downtown Columbus! Being in-person is an important aspect to Big Idea Columbus.
Are there prizes?
You bet there are! 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 two (or more) 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 Doris Lux at dlux@cccneb.edu
Big Idea Columbus is organized and supported by Central Community College’s Entrepreneurship Center