The Brewed Ideas Challenge is an annual pitch competition hosted by Marquette University’s 707 Hub in partnership with Brady Corporation. Open to current students, this program focuses on ‘brewing’ and growing innovative ideas, products, and services, right here on campus. Prior to the competition, we offer a 4-week crash course called the Brewed Ideas Bootcamp to help validate your idea before applying for the Brewed Ideas Challenge.  If you need some inspiration or want to learn more about past Challenges, check out some of the ideas from last year's finalists.

Brewed Ideas Bootcamp

Are you a current Marquette University student working on a new idea for a product or service but need help moving your idea forward? Look no further than the Brewed Ideas Bootcamp! In four weeks, students will validate the market need for their idea, refine their business model and value proposition. In addition, students will receive legal advice, one-on-one business coaching and access to free marketing tools.

APPLY HERE

Brewed Ideas Challenge

The Brewed Ideas Challenge is our version of a shark tank pitch event.  The goal is to "Brew" innovative ideas and foster the entrepreneurial mindset at Marquette. The competition is open to current Marquette students and hosted by the 707 Hub, in partnership with Brady Corporation. Finalists receive mentorship support from Brady Corporation leading up to the competition to help refine and perfect their ideas/ventures. Finalists will pitch their ideas before for a panel of judges and guests.  The challenge will end with a reception where we will hand out $21,000 in funding to the winning teams. 

There are two tracks: 

1) social venture track and 2) traditional business track

Timeline of Events

Brewed Ideas Bootcamp: January 31 & February 7,14, & 21 | 5:00-6:30 p.m. | 707 Hub

Applications due: February 25

Mentor breakfast: March 5 | 8:00-9:00 a.m. | 707 Hub

Pitch practice: April 5 | 707 Hub

Brewed Ideas Challenge: April 12

Judging Criteria 

Judges will evaluate project proposals, submissions 

and final pitches. Review judging criteria.

2018 Award Winners

Social Innovation Track

• 1^st place $7,500 - Thrift/ed
• 2^nd place $2,000 - Bridge the City

Traditional Business Track

• 1^st place $7,500 - Sendgineering
• 2^nd place $2,000 - Complete Shaping

Both the Social Innovation Track and Traditional Business Track are eligible for the Audience Choice Award and/or Brady Innovation Award. 

• Audience Choice $1,000 - Beloved Masterpieces
• Brady Innovation Award $1,000 - MUnchMates

See what The Brewed Ideas Challenge looks like

(click to enlarge)