Big Idea Center Programs

Pitt’s campus is a vibrant hub of innovation, full of bold thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and future change-makers. Whether you’re already working on a groundbreaking idea or just beginning to explore your passions, the Big Idea Center is here to help you take your next step. By engaging with Pitt’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, you’ll join a diverse community of students from every major and background who are united by one goal: to make a real impact…one Big Idea at a time.

At the Big Idea Center, we believe that innovation isn’t just about launching startups. It is about learning how to think differently, challenge assumptions, and create value in whatever path you choose. You’ll have access to inspiring programs, hands-on workshops, and unique opportunities designed to help you build skills, test your ideas, and grow your confidence. Whether you’re part of a team developing an idea or an individual looking to build entrepreneurial skills for a future venture or career, there’s something here for you.

Fall 2026 Programs

The Big Idea Center offers a dynamic lineup of programs designed to support student innovators at every stage. Explore what’s coming up and find the perfect way to plug in, build your skills, and make your mark at Pitt and beyond. Choose between one of our Team & Idea Development programs, meant to help you take your project to the next step towards reality, or our Exploration & Skill Building options for students at any stage to step in and learn how to impact change.

TEAM & IDEA DEVELOPMENT

Big Idea Blitz | September 25-26 & October 2

Application Deadline – September 13 @ 11:59 P.M.

Thinking of competing in the Big Idea Competition, or a similar pitch competition? Want to gain valuable experience and boost your innovation skillset? Whether you are just tinkering with a new idea or prepping for a high-stakes pitch, Big Idea Blitz is your launchpad. This immersive, 24-hour+ virtual workshop is open to all University of Pittsburgh students – undergraduate, graduate, and students at regional campuses – and postdocs who are ready to turn their ideas into action. Big Idea Blitz is a supportive, fast-paced environment meant to spark progress.

Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your drive.

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Big Idea Challenge | September – November

Application Deadline – September 27 @ 11:59 P.M.

This fast-paced, high-impact elevator pitch competition is designed for early-stage concepts and emerging founders ready to take the next step toward turning an idea into reality. Held each fall, the Challenge invites Pitt students at every level and from any school to develop, refine, and deliver a compelling elevator pitch that communicates the problem being solved, the solution, and the value behind their big idea.

This is your chance to sharpen and advance your vision and build your innovative and entrepreneurial skills.

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EXPLORATION & SKILL-BUILDING

ChangeMaker Series | Various Dates

Registration Deadline – September 20 @ 11:59 P.M.

Do you want to make a difference in the work you do? What inspires you? What impact do you want to have on the world? The ChangeMaker Series is a free, five-session experience for Pitt students who are curious, creative, and ready to shake things up. Learn how to think like an innovator, work alongside a cross-campus cohort, and learn from real-world change-makers.

No startup experience or idea required, just a desire to get involved and take action.

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ACCELERATOR OPPORTUNITIES

Blast Furnace | May through June

The Blast Furnace is Pitt’s student accelerator providing access to a deep mentor network, inspirational co-working space, and a rich curriculum preparing student startups for creating and growing their businesses. In our accelerator program, students will dive deeper into customer discovery and gain a better understanding of their market and whether their idea is feasible.

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