Independent Innovators Network

Michigan Colleges Alliance (MCA) is pleased to announce the third round of its student entrepreneurship scholarship competition – the Independent Innovators Network scholarship.  This program awards scholarships up to $7,500 based on the strength of student applications outlining a business or social entrepreneurship concept.

 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Applications due:  January 19, 2018


APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

1.  Student must attend a member college or university of Michigan Colleges Alliance.

 

2.  Answer the following questions about your concept:

  1. What is the "elevator pitch" for your concept, a summary of the main idea that you could articulate in an elevator ride?  (max. 600 characters)
  2. What unmet need in the market or society does your concept address?  (max. 900 characters)
  3. Describe the steps needed to convert this concept into an actual enterprise. (max. 900 characters)
  4. What might be some key constraints in launching your concept?  (max. 900 characters)
  5. Identify current products, businesses or alternative strategies that compete with your idea, and what advantages does your concept offer among alternative approaches?  (max. 900 characters)

 

3.  Ask a campus faculty or staff member to review your concept prior to submission.  You'll need to submit his/her name as your campus sponsor.

 

4.  Submit your application - Click Here

 

 

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY END OF DAY ON JANUARY 19, 2018.

 

 

Your concept will be reviewed by a panel of business leaders for the following:

  • Comprehensiveness and clarity:  Is the concept well thought out and clearly presented? (10 points)
  • Relevance:  Does the concept address a real need or problem to be solved? (25 points)
  • Viability:  How feasible is the concept?  Does it acknowledge challenges or obstacles? (25 points)
  • Innovation:  Does the concept address the business or social need in a unique way?  Is it highly differentiated? (40 points)

 

Scholarship funds will be remitted directly to the college or university for tuition and fees and/or room and board.  Scholarship may not exceed student's financial gap.

 

 

QUESTIONS?  Contact Marcie Levey at mlevey@michigancolleges.org