IGNITE: Entrepreneurial Pathways is UIC Innovation’s investment in student’s entrepreneurial journey. We help you ideate, iterate and innovate. Learn more →

The Spark Series is a dynamic slate of programming designed to help students explore and grow their entrepreneurial ideas.  Through faculty led workshops, an annual Demo Day, and access to off campus programming through 1871, MATTER and mHUB, students access the best of the Chicago Innovation ecosystem. *While it is beneficial to take part in the events, participation is not required to be involved in the Blaze Venture Challenge.

Why participate? A curated curriculum designed to help you develop your ideas, the chance to receive feedback and win cash prizes at the annual Demo Day and networking opportunities with Chicago’s up and coming startup leaders.

The Blaze Venture Challenge accelerates students entrepreneurial ideas through mentoring, workshops and the chance to earn seed money for startup funding. Participants who advance past the virtual semi-final round earn the opportunity to showcase their ideas. This signature event features a panel of judges and the chance for students to win startup funding to turn ideas into viable businesses. *Both graduate and undergraduate students are welcome to participate.

Why participate? $10,000 in cash prizes, access to world-class mentors and real-world experience in pitching your passions to investors.