INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — High school students across Indiana have a chance to compete in Innovate WithIN, an initiative that teaches students about entrepreneurship and innovation. Participants will learn how to turn problems into opportunities, pitch their ideas, and compete for prize money and scholarships.
Tina Marlie, a teacher at Speedway High School, has witnessed the benefits of this competition firsthand. “Students get a tremendous opportunity to be creative and share their ideas with people who are willing to listen and learn. The networking opportunities with industry leaders and major companies are invaluable—something most students wouldn’t encounter outside of this program.”
According to the official website, Innovate WithIN offers millions of dollars in scholarships and other incentives for students planning to attend Indiana colleges and universities. Just by submitting their pitch, students become eligible for scholarships. State finalists can even win up to $25,000 in funding to grow their businesses. This year, finalists will travel to Washington, D.C., where they will meet with industry leaders, government officials, and successful entrepreneurs.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to get real-world experience,” Marlie said. “Students get advice from professionals on how to improve their ideas and make them a reality. The exposure and connections they gain are invaluable.”
Fellow teacher at Speedway High School, Sarah Ackerman, has seen students grow through the program since 2016. “I’ve had students who were terrified of public speaking now confidently presenting to state legislators and business professionals. They’re passionate about their ideas and eager to show the world what they can do. I’ve even had business professionals tell me they were blown away by the quality of ideas coming from high schoolers—ideas that are making a real impact on the world.”
Since its inception in 2018, over 9,154 students have participated in The STARTed Up Foundation’s Innovate WithIN, and more than $650,000 in awards have been distributed.
The deadline to submit your pitch is Feb. 21.
