Got a problem on campus? Pitch a solution and win prizes

Published July 14, 2016 This content is archived.

If you’ve ever had an idea for improving life at UB, this is the contest for you.

From now through July 22, UB’s Blackstone LaunchPad is offering prizes to staff and faculty who develop the best ideas for solving campus problems of all kinds, from transportation troubles to long lines for food.

Prizes for top solutions include VIP tickets to UB Distinguished Speakers Series events, visitor’s lot parking passes, lunch at the Tiffin Room and tickets for concerts at the Center for the Arts. Winning ideas also may be implemented on campus.

Here’s how to enter the Blackstone LaunchPad Campus Problem Challenge:

  • Create an account with Blackstone LaunchPad using your UB email address.     
  • Develop a feasible solution to a problem and record a one-minute video presenting the problem and solution.
  • Upload the video to YouTube.
  • Share the video on Twitter, tagging @LaunchPad_UB and using the hashtag #CampusProblemChallenge.

Videos can be submitted by teams or individuals. YouTube uploads and Twitter-sharing can be done through an individual or UB department’s social media page, and should include entrants’ names.

A viewing party from 2-3 p.m. on July 27 in 220 Student Union will feature all of the ideas and a presentation of prizes.

Blackstone LaunchPad at UB is a campus-based entrepreneurship program designed to help students, faculty, staff and alumni develop entrepreneurial skills and mindsets.

While the program’s main focus is students, the summer contest is geared toward staff and faculty as a way to raise awareness about Blackstone LaunchPad at UB.

“Our students listen to and value the guidance of our staff and faculty on campus, so I wanted to make sure our staff understood who we are, had a good experience with us and were encouraged to share our story with students,” says Hadar Borden, program director for Blackstone LaunchPad at UB.

Participants who have questions about the contest or need assistance with filming can contact UB’s Blackstone LaunchPad at launchpadub@buffalo.edu or 645-8111.