Have you been searching for the right place to pitch that unique or original idea that solves a problem or creates a convenience?

The Big Idea Competition is the event for you! Imagine your audience is made up of potential investors or you're making a video for a Go Fund Me page or pitching on "Shark Tank." Then, submit your video online to the competition to compete for cash prizes.

Competition Overview

The Big Idea Competition is an opportunity for AACC students to pitch a unique or original idea via video submissions. You are encouraged to get creative and identify opportunities that solve a problem or create convenience. Your video should be persuasive, imagining that your audience is made up of potential investors.

Online judges will review submitted videos and score submissions. Top videos will be viewed during the Big Idea Viewing Party and Awards Ceremony from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, in CADE 219. Entrepreneurs Scholarship recipients will also be announced at the event.

Cash Prizes

1st Place: $2,500

2nd Place: $1,000

3rd Place: $500

Skilled Trades: $500 will be awarded to the big idea that focuses on an innovation or new approach in the skilled trades field.

Technology Idea: $500 will be awarded to a big idea focused on a technology solution.

Important Dates

Mark these dates on your calendar so you don't forget!

Tuesday, Sept. 17

In-person kickoff event and information meeting for the Big Idea Competition.
3:30-4:30 p.m., CRSC 243

Wednesday, Sept. 25

Online kickoff event and information meeting for the Big Idea Competition.
7-8 p.m., Zoom

Thursday, Oct. 31, noon

Big Idea deadline! Submit your big idea. 

Thursday, Nov. 14

Finalists are announced at HawkTrade in the Hawk's Nest at noon and via email and social media. Find out if you've made it to the finals!

Thursday, Nov. 21

Big Idea Viewing Party and Awards Ceremony! 
3:30-5 p.m., CADE 219
Register to attend. 

Submission Rules

• Must be an AACC student in good standing (financially and academically) who is currently enrolled in at least one credit or noncredit course or has completed at least one course at AACC between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31, 2024.*
• Must have a student ID
• Must complete the FAFSA
• If a group enters, at least 50% – preferably more – of the group must meet the above enrollment criteria. All group members must be clearly identified in the submission, and a contact name, telephone  and email address must be provided.
• All ideas must be original. The entrant must attest to those facts in the submission.
• By submitting your Big Idea, you understand, agree and authorize your video to be viewed publicly.
• Must submit a link to a YouTube video online by the deadline of noon on Monday, Oct. 31, 2024. Video rules and tips: 
  • • Must stay within the maximum length: 120 seconds. Videos will be cut after 120 seconds.
    • Use a microphone as close to your subject as possible without getting it in the shot. You can also use a clip-on lavaliere (lapel) mic.
    • Make sure your surroundings are quiet unless that is part of your video.
    • Use good lighting. Make sure your subject is well lit. Shoot outdoors if possible.
    • Watch for “photo bombers,” as they will rob your viewer’s attention.
    • Shoot your video in landscape instead of portrait mode.