What is Catalyst?
The College of Science Catalyst Competition is a entrepreneurship challenge open to College of Science student teams (currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students). It is a two-semester entrepreneurship program culminating in a pitch competition that seeks to support students in developing their innovative business ideas in the areas of science and technology. The 2022 competition was held March 16, and the Grand Finale University Pitch SmackDown was held April 8.
A Entrepreneurship Challenge
The College of Science Catalyst Competition is a entrepreneurship challenge open to College of Science student teams (currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students). It is a two-semester entrepreneurship program culminating in a pitch competition that seeks to support students in developing their innovative business ideas in the areas of science and technology.
Selected College of Science student teams can apply to receive up to $500 to develop concepts and prototypes. As part of the program, teams receive mentorship and support from working professionals and representatives of the campus innovation and entrepreneurship program. Following the development of their ideas, student teams will pitch their innovations to a panel of judges in March for a chance to win cash prizes.
The College of Science is home to the next generation of scientists who will lead the way through innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. The College of Science wants to help you develop your product and the skills necessary to turn it into reality.
Sincere appreciation is extended to the Spiro Institute, the Spiro Institute Advisory Board, the Watt Family Innovation Center and alumni donor support of this initiative. Special thanks to Jeff and Megan Pearson and Mei & Mark LLP for their philanthropic support of the 2021–22 competition.
Information about the 2022–23 competition will be posted on this website as it becomes available.
Catalyst in the News
Read about the 2021–22 Catalyst Competition on ClemsonNews:
- Genetics student wins Catalyst Competition for his idea to turn genes into original art
- College of Science Catalyst Competition will be held March 16
- Panelists offer advice to budding entrepreneurs at College of Science’s Catalyst Competition kickoff
- College of Science launches Catalyst Competition, a new entrepreneurship challenge
Jack Carson won $2,500 after his product, geneTunes, took first place in the College of Science’s 2021–22 Catalyst Competition.
Eligibility
Currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Science.
Seed
Funding
Teams accepted for the SCIENCE Catalyst Competition will receive up to $500 to use in the development of their projects.
Professional Development
Participants will learn valuable skills for innovating and pushing the limits of their creativity in solving real-world problems.
Mentoring and Networking
Students will benefit from mentoring and networking with industry experts and representatives of the campus innovation and entrepreneurship program.
Grand
Prizes
The winners of the SCIENCE Catalyst Competition will receive awards: $2,500 for first place, $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place.
Questions?
