February 11, 2013
Competition seeks unique Saluki software ‘apps’
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Is there an ‘app’ for that?
That’s the question for experienced or aspiring software application creators who want to compete in Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s inaugural Saluki App Competition. Students and student-led teams are welcome to participate in the event and compete for cash prizes by creating mobile device software applications (apps) that best enhance the SIU Carbondale campus and/or Southern Illinois.
The contest will award $800, with the top five app ideas winning prizes. All entries are due by 1 p.m. March 29. Online voting is from April 1 to 15.
“Universities across the country are creating contests like this to stimulate student innovation. This is one of several initiatives we have started, along with the Southern Illinois Research Park and Office of Economic and Regional Development, to encourage student involvement in entrepreneurial research and development activities,” Jeff Myers, senior technology transfer specialist with the University’s Technology Transfer Program, said.
Teams may be comprised of any number of students, faculty, staff, alumni and the general public, but at least half of the team must be comprised of spring 2013 SIU students -- whether undergraduate or graduate, full-time or part-time.
Each entry must include short text description of the original app, a video presentation and a photograph of the working application. There are several different categories and genres for the competition. The complete contest rules and entry forms are online at http://siu.launcht.com.
The announcement of winners is set for the annual Research Town Meeting on April 16.
Competition sponsors include the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Dean, the Technology Transfer Program, and the Student Innovation Incubator at SIU Carbondale, along with Husch Blackwell LLP.
For more information, email Amy McMorrow Hunter at techtran@siu.edu or call 618/453-4556.