Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad 2024

REVIVE & THRIVE: Reimagining Rural Resilience

Are you ferociously curious, highly collaborative, and willing to work with others? If so, we have an opportunity for you!

Frostburg State University is excited to host the 2nd Annual regional Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad competition Nov. 1-3. All students are invited to apply. This competition is an opportunity for teams to work quickly and collectively to develop business models and technology-based solutions to real world problems.

What is the Innovation Launch Pad?

The Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad is a multidisciplinary effort bringing together expertise from fields such as technology, healthcare, agriculture, humanities, environmental science, social sciences and the arts. Participants will collaborate to create a comprehensive vision that addresses the economic, social and cultural needs of the region, fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring a vibrant future for Western Maryland. Teams will put their technical and entrepreneurial skills to the test as they work through problem statements related to this year's theme.

Using the agile methodology, teams will conduct market research to create a commercially viable solution and subsequent new technologies to solve difficult issues. The top three teams will receive starting funding, mentorship and resources to bring their innovations to life. First place receives $2,500, second place receives $1,500, and third place receives $1,000. Additionally, all participating teams will gain access to a network of experienced professionals with the knowledge and connections to help take their ideas to the next level.

Potential Focus Areas

Western Maryland's journey from post-industrial decline to a hub of innovation begins here. This event invites participants to reimagine and redesign rural landscapes, transforming challenges into opportunities for economic and cultural renaissance.

	Smart Agriculture: Implement precision farming, sustainable practices, and agri-tech solutions to boost productivity and create resilient local food systems.
	Green Energy Solutions: Develop renewable energy initiatives, such as solar farms or wind energy projects, to power communities and reduce environmental impact.
	Digital Connectivity: Innovate ways to improve digital infrastructure, bringing high-speed internet to underserved areas and enabling remote work, education, and telehealth services.
	Outdoor Adventure and Recreation: Develop unique adventure parks and trails featuring zip lines, climbing walls, and accessible trail designs. Use tech solutions like smart trail markers and adaptive sports equipment to enhance the experience and inclusivity for all participants.
	Healthcare Access: Address physical and mental health challenges by designing better healthcare delivery systems, including telemedicine, mobile clinics, and community health initiatives, to ensure all residents have access to quality care.
	Population Retention and Growth: Explore strategies to reverse population decline by attracting new residents, retaining youth, and creating opportunities that make rural living appealing, such as affordable housing, job creation, and community-building activities.
	Cultural Revitalizatione: Enhance cultural heritage through art installations, community events, and tourism that celebrates the unique history of Western Maryland.
	Sustainable Tourism: Design eco-friendly tourism strategies that leverage the natural beauty of the region while promoting conservation and economic growth.
	Reviving Main Streets: Rethink the use of abandoned or underutilized spaces in rural towns, transforming them into vibrant hubs for business, community activities, and local entrepreneurship.

For Each Problem Statement Also Consider...

Market/Audience for Problem - Who/what is the problem impacting?
University Value Proposition - Why is your idea uniquely positioned to tackle the problem?
Value Proposition - How will clients benefit from the problem being solved?

HOW TO APPLY

There are no costs to students and lunches and refreshments will be provided during the event.
Online applications are being accepted until Friday, Oct. 25 at 11:59 p.m.

(An engineering or coding background is not required)