2023 Back to School Innovation Challenge
Introducing Startland's Back to School Innovation Challenge: a team-based pitch competition that will introduce local high school students to the design thinking process and entrepreneurial mentors.
October 20th, 2023 | Time: 7:45am-1pm | Location: UMKC Bloch School of Management
About This Experience
SAVE THE DATE!
Students will have the opportunity to:
Work in teams (of 5-10 students) to create solutions
Present their idea to a panel of esteemed judges
Tackle real-world problems affecting their community
The winning team will win gift cards to be distributed to each member (gift card vendors to be determined).
This year’s challenge: How might we use urban farming education and resources as a way to end food deserts in communities so that communities are in control of the food they have access to?
Fort Osage High School participating in the 2021 Back To School Innovation Challenge. Learn more about their winning solution here.
A challenge team from Plattsburg High School during their ideation phase.
Requirements
Must be a high school teacher, or be able to sponsor high school students.
Must be able to sponsor a team or classroom of at least 5 students, and no more than 20 students per team.
Must be able to monitor students for the duration of the event.
Must have school approval to be able to utilize the school day for the event.
Must be able to secure a substitute teacher for the day, if necessary.
Still curious?
Read the recap from last year’s challenge––including pitch videos and our featured KMBC News.
Interested in sponsoring this event?
Check out this video of last year’s winning challenge team, “The Vax Collectors,” from Fort Osage High School.
Tips for Recruiting Students
This is an amazing opportunity for students to take part in a real-world learning experience while gaining valuable skills. Along with the event, students will have the opportunity to meet a variety of professionals and entrepreneurs who are looking to empower youth. Finally, each team will have the opportunity to continue their venture, with the opportunity for additional funding for the winning team. Please visit www.startlandedu.org or email edu@startland.org if you have any further questions on engaging students in this event!
