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 2 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 5, and popular vote (Yes, the audience) determines 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: October 12, 2023
Big Idea Columbus is happening on Thursday, November 9th, 2023 at the Columbus Innovation Center, 2311 14th St. Social will start at 5:30 PM and pitch night will start at 6:30 PM.
Frequently asked questions
When is it?
Big Idea Columbus is happening on Thursday, November 9th, 2023 at the Columbus Innovation Center, 2311 14th St. Social will start at 5:30 PM and pitch night will start at 6:30 PM.
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 September 12th and close on October 12th 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.
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 Columbus Entrepreneurship Center Coordinator, Kelli Faltys, at kellifaltys@cccneb.edu.
Big Idea Columbus is organized and supported by Central Community College’s Entrepreneurship Center and Columbus-In-Action.