Midway Ventures Ideathon Competition
Applications Open Below!
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Midway Ventures Ideathon Competition (MVIC)
Midway Ventures presents a first-of-its-kind competition for university students across the Midwest.
Join us for an unparalleled opportunity to ideate, build, and pitch alongside the region’s most ambitious young innovators. Whether you're an aspiring founder, product builder, or venture strategist, this competition is designed to challenge your creativity, sharpen your execution, and connect you with leading startups, investors, and entrepreneurs. Come share your creativity with the founders and builders of Giannuzzi Lewendon, Lanchi Ventures, and TikTok.
This is more than just a case competition — it's your launchpad into the Midwest startup ecosystem.
FAQs:
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: The competition is open to all current undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at universities in the Midwest. Whether you’re studying business, engineering, liberal arts, or anything in between, if you have a creative mind and a drive to build, you’re welcome to apply.
Q: When does the application close?
A: Applications are rolling until May 4th, 2025 at 11:59 PM CT. Submissions will be deliberated from May 4th - May 7th, with invitations for the final round in person at UChicago’s Booth Center being sent out during that week. As long as your ideas are coherent and presentable — we don’t mind when you submit!
Q: Can I apply individually or do I need a team?
A: We believe the best ideas are formed through brainstorming together. Teams are encouraged to participate in groups of 2-5.
Q: What should I prepare for the final round?
A: Finalists will be asked to present a refined version of their idea live at the University of Chicago’s Booth Center on May 11th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM CT. You will be asked to deliver a 7 minute pitch utilizing the materials (at the very least, with the presentation you’ve prepared for submission) as well as any other pertaining materials you may have prepared. This will be followed by 3 minutes of Q&A with our judges, making for a total of 7 +3 (10) minutes of presentations per group. Additional details and logistics will be sent to finalists.
Q: Are there prizes?
A: Yes! There are cash prizes prepared for our winning teams. Additionally, the entire finalist cohort will have their resumes shared with our partner firms for venture mentorship opportunities, potential introductions to investors and startup founders, and acceleration to early talent opportunities within the Midway Ventures network.
Q: I have a question not answered in the FAQ. Who should I contact?
A: Reach out to midwayvc@gmail.com for any additional questions!