The Proving Ground, USC’s entrepreneurial challenge, is back for a bigger and better 2014 and is awarding over $80,000 in cash and startup support for innovative business concepts. We’re looking for any business concept that is innovative, has commercial viability, and has the potential to scale. No idea is too big or small.
This year, USC faculty, staff and recent alumni (graduated 5 years or less) are eligible, along with undergraduate and graduate students, to compete in specific categories of the competition. Winners in the top 3 named categories will walk away with $20,000 each in cash. There will also be a fan favorite prize of $3,000 awarded.
Here’s what you need to know:
Who: All USC undergraduate and graduate students on all campuses, faculty, staff and recent alumni
What: Competition awarding startup capital and support for innovative business concepts
When: Register for the competition by Oct. 1. Application deadline October 17.
Where: Live pitch competition, Shark Tank-style, on November 18, 2014, USC Columbia Campus
Why: To foster a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship across campus and within our community to help take great start-up ideas from concept to marketplace
We will host 2 information sessions on the following days to answer any questions the USC community may have:
· Monday, September 15, 6:00pm: Faculty and Staff Lounge, Swearingen Engineering
· Monday, September 22, 6:00pm: Moore School of Business
For more info: Go to www.USCProvingGround.com
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