Think you’ve got the next billion-dollar idea? The Next Big Thing puts your team in the fast-paced world of innovation and entrepreneurship, inspired by the hit TV show Shark Tank. In this high-energy competition, participants transform bold ideas into tangible products, complete with branding, marketing, and a winning pitch. Teams must collaborate to design, prototype, and promote their creation—all while navigating limited resources and the pressure of a looming pitch deadline. The experience blends creativity, strategy, and business savvy, ending with a high-stakes showdown in front of a panel of “sharks” who will decide which idea is worthy of investment.

Event Flow:

1. Welcome & Icebreaker
   • The event begins with an elevator pitch-inspired icebreaker that gets creative juices flowing.
   • Facilitators introduce the challenge, the “sharks,” and the rules for product development.
2. Idea Generation & Team Formation
   • Participants form teams and brainstorm innovative product concepts.
   • Teams decide on their “Next Big Thing,” combining creativity with practical potential.
3.  Product Development & Resource Strategy
   • Using a set of limited supplies, teams create prototypes of their product.
   • Decisions must be made on how to allocate resources for maximum impact.
4. Branding & Marketing Campaign
   • Teams craft a memorable brand identity, complete with name, logo, and messaging.
   • A short marketing campaign—poster, jingle, or video—is developed to support the pitch.
5. Business Plan & Pitch Prep
   • Teams build a concise business plan covering product purpose, market potential, and profit strategy.
   • Rehearsals ensure the final pitch is polished, persuasive, and investor-ready.
6. The Shark Tank Pitch
   • Each team presents their product, brand, and business plan to the panel of “sharks.”
   • Sharks ask tough questions, test the ideas, and decide on a winner.

Awards & Debrief

Categories may include:

• Most Innovative Product
• Best Branding
• Investor’s Choice (Overall Winner)
• Facilitators lead a short discussion on creativity, collaboration, and adaptability in business and teamwork.