Innovation Workshops

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

This workshop is designed to help Iowa State undergraduates get an accelerated start as innovators by developing ideas and forming teams. 

 Discover Opportunities to Innovate: Engage in a dynamic session to discover and develop your innovative ideas. Whether you’re starting from scratch or already have a concept, this workshop is your catalyst for growth. You’ll explore your skills, interests, and passions to learn how you can contribute to global challenges.  

 Collaborate and Compete: Form teams with peers who share your vision. Your ideas and collaborations will prepare you to compete in the Student Innovation Center’s Innovation Fund Challenge and/or the College by College Pitch Competition.  

 Join us! This workshop isn’t just about ideas; it’s about turning them into actionable projects. It’s an opportunity to gain practical skills, find like-minded collaborators, and take your first steps as an innovator at Iowa State! 

Thursday, February 8, 2024

This workshop will help you elevate your communication skills and captivate any audience. In this dynamic session, participants will delve into the nuances of crafting compelling pitches that leave a lasting impression. From structuring your narrative for maximum impact to refining your delivery style, this workshop covers the essential elements of a successful pitch. Through interactive exercises and personalized feedback, attendees will hone their ability to convey ideas persuasively and with confidence. This workshop is a great opportunity to prepare a pitch for the College by College Pitch Competition and/or refine your ideas for the Innovation Fund Challenge. 

Thursday, March 7, 2024  and Wednesday, March 20, 2024

This immersive session is tailored for individuals seeking to breathe life into their concepts and turn them into impactful realities. Participants will be guided through a structured process, learning effective techniques to refine and expand their initial ideas. Engage in interactive exercises designed to uncover the core strengths of your concepts and address potential challenges. Our experienced facilitators will provide valuable insights and feedback, empowering you to navigate the intricacies of idea development. By the end of the workshop, you’ll emerge with a well-crafted and thoroughly developed concept ready to take on the world. Unleash your creative potential and join us in shaping the future through idea development! 

Thursday, March 28, 2024

In this session, student teams will receive constructive feedback and guidance on refining their project proposals and application materials for the Innovation Fund Challenge. Our expert facilitators will provide detailed insights into the elements that make a compelling application, offering tips on how to articulate your ideas more effectively. Engage in interactive discussions, collaborative exercises, and one-on-one feedback sessions to fine-tune your application. This workshop aims to equip you with the tools and knowledge to strengthen your application and increase your chances of securing funding for your innovative projects.  

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

This hands-on session is designed to help student teams prepare for the Innovation Fund Challenge Final Presentations and craft and deliver compelling presentations that resonate with the judging panel. Dive into the key elements of an impactful presentation, from structuring your content for maximum engagement to perfecting your delivery style. You’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to effectively convey the value and potential impact of your innovation. Join us in this empowering workshop to ensure your Innovation Fund Challenge presentation stands out, leaving a lasting mark on both judges and potential collaborators.