Arctic Innovation Competition finals scheduled Friday
October 17, 2012
907-474-7042
10/17/12
The University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Management will award more than $20,000 in cash prizes Friday, Oct.19 after the final round of presentations in the 2012 Arctic Innovation Competition.
The competition, in its fourth year, drew 210 ideas from 157 competitors. Entrants were asked to propose new, feasible and potentially profitable ideas for solving real-life problems and challenges.
The semifinal presentations begin in the UAF Wood Center Ballroom at 1:30 p.m. and the new AIC Jr. division for youth 17 and under will start at 4 p.m. The final four presentations will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the BP Awards Ceremony and Reception at 6 p.m.
A panel of judges will choose the winners. Cash prizes include a grand prize of $10,000, $5,000 for second place, $2,000 for third place, $1,000 for fourth place and 16 awards of $100 each. AIC Jr. competitors will share $1,000 in cash prizes.
Semifinalists include James Bowler, whose idea was inspired by a paper towel holder, and Brandon Stevenson, who put off his honeymoon to attend the competition. Other intriguing ideas include: Hide-a-Hitch, Bear Repellant/Air Horn Combo and Airlite Inflatable Snowshoes.
"I continue to be surprised by the diversity and breadth of ideas,” said Jack Wilbur, president/CEO of Design Alaska, which has been sponsoring the competition since its first year. “These ideas may result in start-up businesses which are essential to our economy.”
The public is invited to attend; all attendees will be eligible to win one of two Alaska Airlines tickets. More information is available at www.arcticinno.com.
ADDITIONAL CONTACTS: Ping Lan, professor, at 907-474-7688 or plan@alaska.edu.
ON THE WEB: www.arcticinno.com
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