Big Ideas Challenge
College of Business|Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship|About
The Big Ideas Challenge is a new venture competition that encourages and celebrates innovative business ideas. The competition is open to Minnesota State Mankato students and alumni within two years of graduation. Individual and team entries are welcome. This new venture competition gives participants the opportunity to compete for money to fund their business.
Next Big Ideas Challenge
The next Big Ideas Challenge will take place on Wednesday, November 18, 2026.
The Big Ideas Challenge Video
See the BIC Challenge in action. This short video highlights the competition experience, showcases participant success stories, and demonstrates the value of getting involved.
Past Winners
Explore the innovative ideas and achievements of previous BIC winners. Visit our Past Winners page to see the projects that stood out, inspired change, and helped shape the future of the challenge.
About The Big Ideas Challenge
The College of Business at Minnesota State University, Mankato and the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship hosts a student new venture competition called the Big Ideas Challenge.
How The Big Ideas Challenge Works
The BIC competition follows a multi-stage process beginning with an application submission. Below you'll find everything you need to know about eligibility, the application process, business plan requirements, rehearsals, and participant expectations.
Timeline and Awards
View the 2026 Big Ideas Challenge timeline and awards available. Stay on track with key competition dates and deadlines, explore the prizes awarded to top teams, and learn how the first-place winner advances as an automatic semifinalist in the Minnesota Cup.
Past winners
View past winners and finalists in the competition!
2024 Big Ideas Challenge Finalist
View this year's Big Ideas Challenge finalists and be sure to come and vote for People's Choice award at the main event.
Mankato, MN 56001
1-507-389-1000
1-800-722-0544