Video: Turn Your Idea Into a RealityWin $5K from The Idea Center at MDC to launch your startup

Felix Puello, 2015 Grand Prize Winner

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Have a genius idea for a program, product or business? You could receive $5,000 to get your business off the ground by entering The Startup Challenge.

The Idea Center at MDC is asking you to think creatively and submit a 60-second video pitching your best entrepreneurial idea. This is your chance to get in front of people who will give your idea the serious consideration it deserves. The competition is open now. You can submit through Sept. 25. One winner will receive $5,000 in grand-prize money and two runners up will receive $3,000 each.

Last year’s grand-prize winner submitted plans for a waterproof, “teched up” longboard with dual cameras, LED lights, a speedometer and other cool features.

The semester-long experience progresses in phases that take you from the 60-second video to a pitch deck, a prototype and a final presentation. You’ll be guided through every step by guest speakers, workshops and business mentors.

“We’re here to help you turn your creative idea into a reality,” said Leandro Finol, the Idea Center’s executive director.

The first Startup Challenge resulted in over 80 diverse and wide-ranging entries that came from all campuses and many different areas of study. Among the inspired ideas, were a program to help K-12 kids overcome language barriers, mobile apps for aspiring photographers, robot prosthetics, and interactive software that shows how clothes fit on certain body silhouettes.

This is a rare chance to develop your business idea in the protective and stable environment that MDC offers. You’ve seen Shark Tank on TV? This is better, because the friendly MDC Sharks are not in it for the money; they’re in it for you.

Fast Facts: You must be 18 years old to enter. Five members maximum per idea. At least one member must be registered at MDC. Florida residents only. Shoot the video on your phone or any other device. Submit by end of day, Sept. 25.