Business & Economy

Apply Now for the Invention Accelerator

Thursday, January 26, 2017, By Matt Wheeler

This summer, a newly launched Invention Accelerator, modeled after Invention Factory, will train undergraduate Syracuse University students to “design, prototype and pitch” as they invent tangible products. A collaboration between the College of Engineering & Computer Science, the College of Architecture and the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ School of Design, this immersive, six-week program will be held on the SU campus and at the SU Fisher Center in New York City.

Applications will be accepted until Feb. 28. However, admission will be made on a rolling basis and is limited to 40 students—20 on campus and 20 at the Fisher Center.

The Accelerator follows a proven method of developing students’ abilities to innovate and communicate. Students will learn about design, ideation and intellectual property, then conceive an original invention, prototype the invention and refine it in response to weekly feedback from diverse audiences of guest evaluators.

In addition to a chance to win cash prizes of $5,000 for best invention and $3,000 for second best invention, students will receive:

  • a $1,000 stipend;
  • a $1,000 budget per team for project materials;
  • guidance from expert consultants and evaluators;
  • access to laser cutters, 3D printers, a machine shop and professional machinists;
  • assistance with a provisional patent application; and
  • daily lunch, coffee and snacks.

The Accelerator will take place May 15-June 23 at Syracuse University and May 22June 30 at the Fisher Center.

Visit invent.syr.edu, to learn more and apply to the 2017 program before Feb. 28.