New! This competition is now OPEN TO ALL BU STUDENTS (and alumni from classes of 2021 and 2022).
Application deadline – extended to FEBRUARY 20, 2023
The Boston University School of Hospitality Administration’s $50k Poyiadjis Hospitality Innovation Competition offers Boston University students an opportunity to pitch ideas for new ventures within the hospitality industry that embrace innovative ways to solving problems and creating value for all stakeholders.
The Innovation Competition aims to assist students in thinking innovatively and entrepreneurially about hospitality. The competition encourages students to develop a deep understanding of the real-world challenges faced by the hospitality industry and create solutions for them. Competing teams can apply with just an idea and will then work with advisors and mentors to further refine their ideas during their time in the competition.
With cash prizes totaling $50,000 for the top three teams, we aim to aid students in kick-starting their innovative ideas and transforming them into real ventures. The top team will receive a cash prize of $25,000, the team in second place will receive $15,000, and the team in third place will receive $10,000.
In addition to very attractive prize money for the top three teams, all participants will benefit from a multi-dimensional learning experience through a combination of group classes, one-on-one mentoring, and access to experienced advisors and investors, helping teams further their business ideas and create a better future for the next generation of hospitality.
Some of the ways we will support teams include:
- All participants will be offered a concept feedback session with BU alumni and faculty so they can improve their venture and try again in the next year’s competition.
- All teams that enter Stage 2 will be featured on the Innovation Competition website and receive publicity on our social media channels.
- Teams in the final round of the competition will be offered ongoing professional workshops and mentoring to refine their ideas and business plans even after the competition ends. In addition to presenting live in front of an audience of students, industry professionals and SHA alumni, teams will also receive visibility with potential investors through our press releases and social media campaigns.
Learn more about the competition and apply to be part of it here.
The key deadlines for the Competition are:
Monday, February 20, 2023 by Noon – Applications DueFriday, February 24, 2023 – Announcement of teams selected to move to Stage 2 Friday, March 10, 2023 – All teams make a 8-minute pitch to judges Monday, March 13, 2023 – Announcement of teams selected to move to Stage 3, the Finals!
Friday, March 24, 2023 - Final teams will present their ventures to a live audience consisting of Boston University students, alumni, industry professionals, and potential investors and judges at the SHA Hospitality Leadership Summit in Boston
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Email us at shaideas@bu.edu
