Are you an entrepreneur with a big idea? Your first stop in the entrepreneurial journey at SMU is Big iDeas, where you can find the resources, mentorship, and support to bring your idea to life.
Pitch to a panel of business experts for up to $5000 in start-up funds. 4 minute pitch + 4 minute Q&A.
Competition: September 25, 2026
In the ideation phase? Pitch your idea in 90 seconds for a chance to win up to $1,000 in seed funding.
Competition: November 12, 2026
Interested in representing SMU on the biggest stages of entrepreneurship across the nation? Apply to be a part of the SMU Entrepreneurship Varsity Team!
Learn about the chance to pitch your business and battle against the best entrepreneurs in the ACC.
Competition: March 2027
Tuesday, September 08, 2026, 4:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Are you thinking about about applying to pitch in the Big iDeas Business Plan Contest? Come join the Big iDeas Entrepreneurship Fellow and receive...
Wednesday, September 09, 2026, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Are you thinking about about applying to pitch in the Big iDeas Business Plan Contest? Come join the Big iDeas Entrepreneurship Fellow and receive...
Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Pitching in the Bg iDeas Pitch Competition or just wanting to refine your business pitch? Come and Practice Your Pitch for the Big Day!
Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 1:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Pitching in the Bg iDeas Business Plan Pitch Competition? Come get help on your pitch deck and practice your pitch.
Entrepreneurship at SMU connects students with opportunities, resources, and communities across campus to explore ideas and bring ventures to life. From competitions to mentorship, funding, and programs offered by many offices across the University, there are countless ways to get involved in your entrepreneurial journey.
Our staff is available to meet with you for coaching or general questions about entrepreneurship.
Contact Olivia Prioleau, Project Specialist, with general questions: bigideas@smu.edu
Interested in being part of a start-up? Let us know the skills you can bring to our entrepreneurs. Get on the ground floor of something Big.
