The Woltemade Big Problem Challenge invites Ohio Wesleyan University students to tackle meaningful, real-world problems through creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Students identify a significant problem, develop a thoughtful and feasible solution, and pitch their ideas to a panel of judges. The challenge encourages students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges while developing skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication.
Think big. Solve problems. Make an impact.
To apply for this competition, student teams must submit three items:
1. A printable poster that consists of a one-slide PowerPoint or Google slide that provides a visual image of your proposed solution with not more than a one-sentence description. This is sometimes called a "hero image." Your hero image should aim to bring your concept to life. Make sure it is vibrant and engaging.
2. A single page describing your Big Idea in less than 250 words. This should clearly explain what your solution is, the specific area of need it addresses, and how you arrived at the solution. This is sometimes called an Executive Summary.
3. A 2-to-3-page supplementary document that addresses the following:
a. How does your proposal connect to the wider set of issues as presented in
this challenge?
b. What might be the social and environmental impacts of your proposal?
c. What research have you done to substantiate your proposal?
d. What evidence can you provide that your proposal will solve or at least
mitigate the problem you are addressing?
e. How would you measure success?
f. How might you develop funding for this project?
Application now closed and will open in January 2027.
Application Deadline: February 5, 2027.
Competition: February 25, 2027 (During the OWU Connection Conference)
Teams that are selected as finalists will deliver a 5-minute pitch to a panel of judges and audience.
Winners will be decided by the judges. First-place prize is $3,000. Second place is $1,500. Third place is $750. (These amounts are awarded per team, not per person unless competing individually.)
Contact Prof. Cliff Hurst at cghurst@owu.edu for more information about the Big Problem Challenge and to learn more about opportunities in Entrepreneurship.