launchU 2024 Student “Shark Tank” Startup Challenge

What: launchU is an annual event hosted by Harrisburg University’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Students are given the opportunity to flesh out an idea with the help of faculty, staff, and other mentors without any costs, while learning the basics of innovation and entrepreneurship.

When: The application deadline is March 8, 2024. The competition finale will be held virtually on May 16, 2024.

Who: This competition is open to all undergraduate college and high school students.

How/Selection Process: To apply go to: https://cie.harrisburgu.edu/launchu-2024/

The top 7 applicants will be chosen to participate in the launchU competition. If selected, the student/team will work with an assigned mentor to advise them on completing an investment summary and refining their final pitch. During the competition finale, each individual/team will make a final pitch to a panel of judges.

Competition Rules

1. Applicants must be current high school students (9-12) or college undergraduates (have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree).
2. Single applicants are welcomed as well as teams of up to 5 individuals.
3. All product and service ideas are encouraged. The selection committee may give special consideration to ideas that are unique and have not been previously submitted.
4. All high school applicants must include the name of a Cooperating Teacher or Administrator on the application who will serve as a secondary contact person.
5. Applicants selected as Finalists agree to attend the Kickoff Meeting and other required meetings with the Mentors and CIE staff.
6. All Finalists should have access to reliable personal or school-owned devices with a high-speed Internet connection.
7. Finalists must submit both a completed Investment Summary and Pitch Presentation in order to participate in the Competition Finale.
8. Finalists agree to attend a required Dress Rehearsal (virtually) before participating in the Competition Finale.
9. Pitch Presentations should be no longer than 8 minutes and will be followed by 3 minutes of Q&A from the Judges.