Creator Colosseum Startup Competition: Student Founders. Real Startups.

The challenge

Participants should develop a realistic startup concept that addresses a clear problem and proposes a thoughtful, practical solution with real-world potential. Your startup can be a software-based product, platform, app, tool, service, business model, or a technical or non-technical concept. Early-stage ideas are encouraged.

Submission requirements

Each submission must include:

• A written description of your startup idea.
• A clear explanation of the problem you are solving and why it matters.
• A detailed explanation of your solution and how it works.
• A basic execution or business plan describing how the idea could realistically be developed.
• Identification of your target users or market. Format this in question: answer format, answering all components mentioned above. These answers can be submitted in an attached document in the "Upload a File" request in the "Additional Info" section.

If your startup includes a technical or coding component:

• A link to a public GitHub repository demonstrating any code used for the project.

Optional Components [RECOMMENDED]:

• A short pitch video (5 minutes max) explaining your idea, the problem, the solution, and how the solution can be implemented. A slides deck is not required, but please have it in the frame of the video if one is used.
• Designs, mockups, or prototypes.
• Any additional materials that help communicate your vision.

Judging criteria

• Feasibility & Execution | 25%: Does the submission demonstrate a clear, realistic plan for execution? If technical elements are included, is the implementation thoughtful and functional? Does the idea show strong understanding of how the startup could actually work in the real world?
• Potential Impact | 25%: How meaningful is the problem being addressed? Could this startup create real value for users or a community? Is the target audience clearly defined, and does the solution effectively meet their needs?
• Communication & Clarity | 10%: Is the idea clearly explained? Are the submission materials, pitch, or demo easy to understand? Does the team effectively communicate their vision, execution plan, and future potential?
• Effort and Work Ethic | 40%: Is effort put into the project shown through the submission? Does the submission have thought put into it and can the work be measured?

Prizes

• First Place: $300 cash + Professional Mentoring Sessions.
• Second Place: $200 cash + Professional Mentoring Sessions.
• Third Place: $75 cash + Professional Mentoring Sessions.
• Top 10 Rankings: Professional Mentoring Sessions. Total prize pool: $575+ in cash.