Welcome to Azul's Innovation Challenge
Focusing on bold ideas that are ready to soar, Azul's Innovation Challenge celebrates the innovative potential of FGCU’s community. Join us to turn your big idea into reality!

- Over $33,000 will be awarded in cash and in-kind services.
- The challenge is open to all FGCU students and recent alumni (Fall 2023 graduates and later).
- Participants can submit ideas for for-profit businesses, not-for-profit organizations, corporate entrepreneurship, or social enterprises.
- Use the Wicked Problem and Lean Startup Methodologies to identify and address significant challenges.
- Gain valuable feedback, build networks, and pitch ideas to potential investors.
- Teams must be made up of four (4) members and must include at least one current FGCU student or recent alumnus from any major.
- Applications are to participate are due by February 21, 2025 at 11:59pm.
$15K
1st Place
$10K
2nd Place
$5K
3rd Place
$500
4th-6th Place
Special Awards: $500 each (Tradeshow Award, Technology Award, Eagle Spirit Award)
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Important Dates
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Info and Training Session Dates
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How to Submit Your Idea
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Step 1: Prepare Your Submission
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Step 2: Submit Your Materials
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Step 3: Confirmation
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Additional Notes
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Idea Summary Guide
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1. Submission Round – “Takeoff” (February 21, 2025):
- Submit a 1-2 page idea summary.
- Judging Criteria: Creativity, clarity, and feasibility.
- Top 40 ideas move forward.
2. Trade Show – “Eagle Innovation Expo” (March 25, 2025):
- Teams of up to 4 present their ideas in a trade show format.
- Audience voting determines special awards.
3. Final Pitch Event – “Soaring to Success” (April 17, 2025):
- Top 5-6 teams present in a Shark Tank-style competition.
- Submit a video pitch, Business Model Canvas, and feasibility plan.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about Azul's Innovation Challenge, please reach out to Ross Tsakas, our Entrepreneur in Residence. Ross is here to help and can provide guidance on submissions, eligibility, or any aspect of the challenge.
Ross Tsakas
Lucas Hall 222
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, Florida 33965
stsakas@fgcu.edu