Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

The Wisconsin Big Idea Tournament is an entrepreneurship competition open to undergraduate and graduate students attending any two- or four-year University of Wisconsin school across the state (except UW-Madison).  It teaches cutting-edge Lean Startup business development tools, provides business mentorship, and allows participants to compete at a state level for a chance to win seed funding for their idea as well as a chance to compete internationally at the Global Business Model Competition.

A student “pitch” competition that inspires UW System students to consider the impact of their research. Participants have three minutes to impress a panel of judges with their research and their ability to articulate its larger importance to society. The best of the best win cash prizes and secure a spot in the Quick Pitch State Final.

Produced by the Wisconsin Technology Council and a growing list of partners, the Governor’s Business Plan Contest engages contestants in a five-month process that includes the opportunity to work with mentors and receive feedback from judges. It also leads to valuable public and media exposure for the top business plans and helps spur economic growth in Wisconsin.