Big Idea Contest

WINNERS OF THE 2023
BIG IDEA CONTEST

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Exploring BIG IDEAS in the Wilds of Pennsylvania.

Unleash Your Creativity and Win up to $50,000 in the BIG IDEA Contest!

Are you an entrepreneur with a passion for crafting or developing a product, process, or innovation related to the maker economy, outdoors and recreation, forest products, manufacturing, or technology? You could take home up to $50,000 to bring your BIG IDEA to life!

Winning up to $50,000 will go a long way in helping you further develop your BIG IDEA and infuse your new startup with much-needed cash. Beyond the cash prize, this contest offers a priceless chance to hone your pitching skills, immerse yourself in comprehensive business training, and network with influential figures.

As a BIG IDEA finalist, you’ll participate in a pitch training class, craft an impactful 2-page business summary, and guide your BIG IDEA through coaching sessions with Ben Franklin’s industry experts. The pinnacle of the journey is presenting your pitch deck at the grand finale event, where you have the chance to impress a panel of judges and demonstrate how your innovation can transform into a successful business.

WINNERS OF THE 2023
BIG IDEA CONTEST

Here's what's waiting for you when you enter the Big Idea Contest:

PA MUSHROOM COMPANY,
WINNER OF THE 2022 BIG IDEA CONTEST

Why Apply?

Ignite Your Innovation: Dive into a community of like-minded creators and thinkers, ready to amplify your BIG IDEA. Prize Money: The winner stands to receive up to $50,000 in cash – a vital resource to propel your BIG IDEA to new heights. Network & Pitch Experience: Beyond the cash prize, gain invaluable pitch experience, and business training, and forge connections that last a lifetime.

OTZZY,
FIRST PRIZE WINNER OF THE 2024 BIG IDEA CONTEST

Who Should Apply?

If you’re located in Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Cumberland, Dauphin, Elk, Erie, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, McKean, Mercer, Mifflin, Perry, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Warren, and York. -, haven’t received previous Ben Franklin funding, and are ready to bring your visionary idea to life, this contest is tailor-made for you! Whether you’re shaping a new product, process, or innovation, if you’re on the path to commercialization and your annual sales revenue is below $1,000,000, we want to hear from you!

CAREGIVERS ARTBOX,
WINNER OF THE 2023 BIG IDEA PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

Is Your Idea the Right Fit?

We’re on the lookout for scalable business models across various industries – from technology to manufacturing, forest products to green initiatives, and outdoor recreation.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Scalable business models and ideas are prioritized. These can range across many industries. We particularly encourage innovators and startups in technology, manufacturing, forest products, green products and processes, outdoor recreation to apply.

 

No, only those who have not received funding from Ben Franklin prior are eligible.

he 2024 BIG IDEA Contest sponsored by PA Wilds is only accepting businesses or entrepreneurs located in Cameron, Clinton, Lycoming, Potter, or Tioga County, PA.

We welcome innovators with business ideas to apply. You do not have to have registered your business to apply, but you do need to plan to register to do business in Pennsylvania.

No. We take zero equity and charge no fees.

While cohorts range in size, there are usually 5 finalists selected per contest.

  • Attend the program’s pitch training program
  • Complete investment summary (2-page business summary—template provided to finalists)
  • Create a social media video to promote your company for the People’s Choice Award (template provided to finalists)
  • Complete at least 1:1 coaching session with Ben Franklin staff
  • Present pitch deck at final event

We suggest allotting 5-6 hours per week to complete program materials and prepare for the final pitch competition.

The contest awards $50k total, distributed among the winners. Most contests award 1-3 winners. One lucky winner will receive an additional $2,500 People’s Choice Award.

Attendees at the final pitch competition vote live to award this $2,500 prize to their chosen finalist

Ready to Unleash Your Big Idea?

contest applications will open back up in 2025
Questions until then – please reach out!

Don’t let your groundbreaking concept go unnoticed. Apply today and let your innovation shine in the WILD places of Pennsylvania!

Ben Facts!

Ben Facts!

DID YOU KNOW?

Lightning Rod: Franklin’s experiments with electricity led to his invention of the lightning rod, a device used to protect buildings and ships from lightning strikes. His understanding of electricity and his invention of the lightning rod demonstrated both his scientific acumen and his practical approach to problem-solving.

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