The Department of Education is inviting students to develop an innovative solution to an education problem and design a blueprint for a new company or organization – a startup – to deliver that solution.
Students from across the country have until May 1st to submit a business plan and a video pitch for a for-profit or non-profit startup that includes an innovative strategy, product or service designed to address one of these four topics:
- Middle Grades Matter
Helping middle school students transition to high school and stay on track to graduate. - Skills, Skills, Skills
Providing students in rural, urban, and/or high-poverty communities with opportunities for internships or other work-based learning experiences that help them develop skills for success in postsecondary education, 21st century careers, and civic life. - Education Pays
Making it easier for students and families to make informed decisions about postsecondary education based on affordability and value, to choose colleges best suited to their needs, priced affordably, and consistent with their education and career goals. - Finish Faster
Increasing the likelihood that postsecondary students complete their degrees, and decreasing the time it takes them to finish, such as by improving and speeding up remedial education.
Submissions will be judged by a panel of prominent educators and entrepreneurs. Awards will be made in four categories:
- 6th – 8th grade students
- 9th – 12th grade students
- Undergraduate students
- Out of school youth
Winning students will be celebrated by senior White House and Department of Education officials, and may qualify for additional recognition opportunities.
For more information on this challenge click here. If you have questions regarding the National Education Startup Challenge, email: EDStartupChallenge@ed.gov
