Avnet (Nasdaq:†AVT), a leading global technology solutions provider, has announced that in partnership with†Arizona State University†(ASU) and the†Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, applications are now being accepted for the 2019 ASU Innovation Open (ASUio), a multi-round competition that supports student ventures from across the United States in driving technology innovation and entrepreneurship. Students will compete for a grand prize of $100,000 to continue development of ventures powered by new hardware technologies. Interested teams should†apply†online†and applications will be accepted through October 31, 2018.
“At Avnet, we have a passion for working with students to promote entrepreneurship. Together with Arizona State University, we are able to encourage and build that entrepreneurial spirit through the Innovation Open,” said MaryAnn Miller, senior vice president, chief human resources officer, and global marketing & communications for Avnet. “As technology continues to change the way we live, we are excited to see how students are working to change our world for the better, and we look forward to helping them along the way.”
“The Innovation Open is a terrific example of ASU’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship in all of its forms,” said Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering Dean Kyle Squires. “The success of last year’s competition was due in large part to the leadership and commitment of†Avnet, along with other dedicated sponsors and ASU colleagues. We are looking forward to drawing an even broader range of competitors as we move forward.”
The ASUio is open to all current university students from any academic discipline. Submissions must include a five-minute video pitch that discusses the problem solved by the team’s technology, as well as the overall competitive landscape, business model and team makeup.
The ASUio will take place in three rounds:
- First Round:†All applicants will be evaluated by entrepreneur judges with entries narrowed to 15 semi-finalists who will advance to the next round.
- Semi-Finals:†On December 8, 2018, semi-finalists will present their projects in-person before a select panel of expert judges at ASU SkySong in Scottsdale, Arizona. Five finalists will be selected to advance to the finals.
- Finals:†Finalists will deliver in-person pitches before a panel of judges during the Final Demo Day at the ASU Memorial Union on February 1, 2019, in Tempe, Arizona. In addition, finalists will get to participate in a VIP experience. One student venture will be awarded the $100,000 grand prize.
