The competition

Competition
details.

A 24-hour student competition to develop a startup idea, build a prototype, and present your work.

The format

Teams work across research, design, engineering, and business. Every major has something to contribute.

01Explore a problem

Find a customer problem worth working on. Talk to people, test your assumptions, and decide what your team will focus on.

Research & team formation
02Build a prototype

Make a usable version of your idea. Choose the simplest format that lets someone try it and give you feedback. AI credits will be given.

Design & development
03Work out the business

Explain who your customer is, how you will reach them, and how your idea could sustain itself.

Customers & business model
04Present your work

Show your prototype, share what you learned, and explain the decisions your team made.

Demo & pitch
What to prepare

What to bring.

You can come with an idea or develop one with a team. A laptop and charger will be useful if you have them. If equipment or accessibility needs affect your participation, contact the organizers before the event.

Team size, pitch length, venue access, and the detailed schedule are pending. We will add the confirmed information here.

Proposed judging areas / Draft

How work may be assessed.

01

Problem

A clear customer need supported by what you learned.

02

Prototype

A usable demonstration of the idea and its core experience.

03

Business model

A considered approach to customers, distribution, and sustainability.

04

Presentation

A clear explanation of your work, evidence, and next steps.

These areas are a draft, not a final rubric. Judges, scoring, and prizes have not been confirmed.

Participation.

All majors are welcome, including students who have never taken part in a startup event. Be clear about your contributions and any work or tools your team uses. Treat teammates and other participants with respect.

Read the draft community guidelines
UC Santa Barbara

Take part in
Startup Weekend.

Submit your application to take part.

Apply to competeAll majors welcome. No experience required.