The College of Science Catalyst Competition is an entrepreneurship challenge that seeks to support students in developing their innovative business ideas in the areas of science and technology.
Each spring, student teams present their ideas to a panel of judges in a culminating pitch competition for a chance to win cash prizes.
A two-semester course is offered in the College of Science to help students prepare for the pitch competition. All Science students are eligible to join the competition even if not registered in the course.
Student teams will work with industry and academic experts and can attend presentations or hear from speakers on topics related to entrepreneurship and innovation.
As a participant, you’ll learn valuable skills for innovating and pushing the limits of your creativity in college and the outside world.
Each team accepted for the Catalyst Competition may be eligible to receive up to $500 in funding to help develop their project. The top three winning teams receive prizes of $2,500, $1,000 and $500.
The College of Science is home to the next generation of scientists who will lead the way through innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. The College of Science wants to help you develop your product and the skills necessary to turn it into reality.
Do you have an idea? Here are some things to consider:
Want to participate in the College of Science Catalyst Competition? Keep these points in mind:
Alejandra Rodriguez, a first-year biomedical engineering major, and Prasamsa Tatineni, a first-year microbiology student, created DermAlert, a high-tech, disposable wound dressing that detects early infection by using well-established physiological markers like temperature and size.
Watch VideoSincere appreciation is extended to all who have donated to this initiative since the launch of the program, including the Spiro Institute, the Spiro Institute Advisory Board, the Watt Family Innovation Center, the Brook T. Smith Launchpad and alumni donors.
