Wisconsin Big Idea Qualifier Prizes
- First Place: $1,500
- Second Place: $1,000
- Third Place: $500
UWM is honored to host the ninth Big Idea qualifier in 2025. This competition focuses on the entrepreneurs’ journey and experience with Lean Launch methodology.
What is the Wisconsin Big Idea Tournament?
This statewide competition hosted by WiSys is open to all UW system students (except for UW-Madison students). The UWM Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) and Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) was honored to host the eighth UWM local qualifying competition in 2024.
UWM is excited to offer prizes for first, second, and third place.
UWM Big Idea Champions
In 2024, Kayla Lokker received the People’s Choice Award at the state competition for her business, Easy Wear Jewelry. In 2023, Mitchelle Lyle took home the first place prize for both the UWM qualifier and the state competition with her idea, International Travel Advisor (ITA). In 2021, Ross Younger placed first in the UWM qualifier and advanced to the statewide Big Idea Tournament. Watch Ross Younger’s pitch submission.
What is the outline of the competition?
- Students participating will be given 4 minutes to pitch, then judges can ask questions and receive answers for up to 4.5 minutes. The judges will have a minute to reset and we will go to the next person.
- The winner from the UWM qualifier will automatically advance to the statewide competition.
What do you need to submit?
Submissions can be a 300 word essay OR 60-90 second YouTube video. Submissions should explain the Lean Launch journey you have experienced as an entrepreneur. Content should include information about customers, solutions, and key Business Model Canvas information.