Baylor Bear Challenge

A Venture Ideation Challenge

April 25-26, 2025
Waco, Texas
Baylor University

The Bear Challenge is an exciting entrepreneurship competition designed to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators. High school students from across Texas, representing cities like Austin, Houston and Dallas, will gather at Baylor University to tackle real-world business problems and create financially viable, market-centered solutions for local businesses.

This unique opportunity not only sharpens entrepreneurial skills but also allows participants to experience the dynamic spirit of Baylor’s top-ten-ranked entrepreneurship program.

A Journey of Innovation and Growth

Participants will immerse themselves in a two-day event that provides far more than a typical competition. The Bear Challenge offers:

• Campus Experience: Students will tour Baylor's vibrant campus, interact with current students and experience life in a university committed to innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Keynote and Instruction: The event kicks off with a keynote from an industry leader, followed by detailed instructions on the challenge ahead.
• Mentorship and Feedback: Teams will be paired with Baylor students, faculty and industry experts who will guide them throughout the competition, providing valuable mentorship and feedback to hone their business strategies.
• Constructive Work Sessions: A hands-on work session allows teams to develop their final presentations, refining their ideas in preparation for the judging panel.

Compete for Prestigious Awards

The Bear Challenge culminates in team presentations judged by a distinguished panel of successful entrepreneurs and industry professionals. Judging criteria will focus on:

1. Problem-Solution Fit: Teams must clearly communicate the problem, their innovative solution and the research that supports their idea’s value and competitive edge.
2. Business Model Development: Teams need to present a solid business model, defining their customer value proposition, target audience and pathway to financial sustainability.
3. Pitch Delivery: A professional, confident and compelling pitch will be critical to winning over the judges.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams (2025 prize amounts to be announced soon), recognizing their creativity, business acumen and presentation skills.

An Unforgettable Baylor Experience

In addition to the competition, participants will have the opportunity to connect with current Baylor students and experience firsthand the energy and dynamism that sets Baylor apart. Baylor's entrepreneurship program is one of the nation's finest, offering students a unique learning environment filled with innovation and collaboration.

Get Involved

Interested in learning more about how your students can participate in this transformative event? Contact Kathy Carr for more details about the Bear Challenge and how to get involved.

2024 Bear Challenge Winners

First Place: Memorial Senior High 

Second Place: Elkins High School 

Third Place: Anderson High School (Team A)

Honorable Mentions:

• Akins Early College High School 
• Anderson High School (Team B)
• British International School 
• Dulles High School 
• Klein Collins High School 
• Northeast Early College High School 
• Travis Early College High School