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Inviting UCLA Students to Solve Real-World Problems
Through Technology
 
We believe the strongest solutions to complex problems come from a diversity of thought, experiences and backgrounds. This initiative brings together UCLA students from all disciplines and backgrounds to collaborate on driving a positive change in society.
Innovation Challenge Prompts
 
Healthcare

Use technology (digital or otherwise) to create a solution that will significantly improve accessibility, affordability, health outcomes or care delivery in U.S. healthcare. 

Sustainability

Use technology (digital or otherwise) to create a solution that will significantly improve the sustainability of our environment in the following areas: water, energy, climate, transportation, and ecosystems.

*Subject to change

Structure
 
This initiative provides ample opportunities for students to learn from industry leaders at major technology companies, meet and collaborate with like-minded students across campus and receive guidance from subject matter experts to propel their venture to the next level.
Fall Quarter
  • Workshop and Event Series: Learn the best practices related to innovation management.
  • Networking: Inspire and facilitate team formation.
Winter Quarter
  • Registration: Submit written plan online.
  • Qualifying Review: Judges review plans and select finalists in each track to continue to the final round.
  • Advising Program: Finalists get the opportunity to connect with SME principals for guidance in refining their proposed innovations.
Spring Quarter
  • Final Round: Top teams pitch their business plans to a panel of expert judges.
  • Closing Event: Winning team from each track pitches their venture and share their leadership learnings with a greater audience at an event hosted by the Easton Center.
Innovation Challenge Events
 
Building a Financial Model - Wed, 10/19/2022
Fundamentals of Team Formation - Wed, 11/2/2022
Pitching to Investors - Wed, 11/9/2022
Biodesign Mixer: Innovation Challenge, 1/10/2023
Social Impact and Sustainability Mixer: Innovation Challenge, 1/17/2023
Issues and Economics in the Healthcare Industry: A Discussion for Entrepreneurs - Tue, 1/24/2023
Team Testimonials
 
Prizes
 
up to $50k in cash prizes awarded
Students Driving Change
 
Partners
 
Innovation Challenge partners UCLA Anderson, UCLA Health and Institute for Carbon Management

Special thanks to Dean Tony Bernardo for his continued support of this very important cross campus initiative

Supporting Organizations 
 
Supporting Organizations
Rules and Contact Information
 

For questions, please contact Connor Dougherty, Innovation Challenge Program Manager at connor.dougherty@anderson.ucla.edu OR schedule a 1:1 meeting via Calendly