The MWest Student Experience

Students participating in the MWest Challenge competition will have a unique educational experience as they develop their business concepts and compete for prizes during the pitch competition.

• Informational video available on the website (January 13, 2025)

• Build a startup team with peers from your school or any of the participating schools

• Develop a business concept idea using the guidelines

• Gather feedback from faculty and community mentors

• Gather feedback from potential customers

• Refine your business concept

• Compete in your school’s competition selection event (see respective schools for details)

• Develop your pitch presentation or innovation showcase poster/table materials

• Attend the MWest Challenge competition at GRCC on April 16, 2025

• Network with community leaders and other business founders

• Pitch to a jury of leaders from the Grand Rapids startup ecosystem

• Receive feedback on your business concepts from jury members

• Win prize money (or seed funding if you plan to start the business)!