Customer Discovery Challenge

Want the chance to win extra for your venture?

Complete 10 Customer Discovery Interviews to be eligible for up to $1,500. Teams will conduct these interviews, complete Innovator’s Academy worksheets, and review them with a mentor.

Compete against a smaller pool of teams and advance your venture for future rounds by working with a mentor early. This challenge also serves as preparation for Pitch George, another way to win extra prize money! Hosted by the Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, winners will be celebrated at the 2027 New Venture Competition.

Registration for this challenge is now OPEN and closes on Friday, October 30, 2026.