ASPIRE’S INNOVATION CHALLENGE

November 2–3, 2025

Utah State University

To kick-off the annual meeting, ASPIRE is launching its inaugural Innovation Challenge — a Hackathon event designed to foster connections, spur innovative solutions, and engage with industry leaders for a chance to further develop and pitch winning ideas at Innovation & Industry Day!

  • Registration Closes: October 23
  • Virtual Kick-Off: October 31
  • Build Day: November 2
  • Build & Demo: November 3
Students participating in USU’s annual Hackathon event.

What is an Innovation Challenge?

ASPIRE’s very first Innovation Challenge follows a hackathon model. Students will have the opportunity to rapidly prototype scalable solutions to real-world industry pain points. These will be focused around ASPIRE’s 4 core research project areas: Charging Stations of the Future, Electrified Roadways, Integrated Systems, and Workforce Development. Prototypes can be in the form of software, hardware, or workflow processes. Teams will have five minutes to present their solutions and answer questions from the judges, then the winners will be announced at the ASPIRE & Partners Social.

How Do I Join?

Registration is now open for students. All students from any of the 10 ASPIRE campuses, along with 3 other aligned universities are welcome to participate. Teams will consist of 4 to 6 members, and a networking opportunity the week before the Innovation Challenge will aid in team formation.

While coding experience is helpful, it is not required, as a variety of skills, including design, project management, and business strategy will be necessary for this challenge. Once registered, participants can get ready to bring their laptop and compete in the first-ever ASPIRE Innovation Challenge!

Event Location:

All Innovation Challenge activities will be held at the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University in Logan, Utah.

Stay tuned for parking information.

Please know we are committed to providing a productive environment that is welcoming and safe for all participants, is free from discrimination and harassment, and where all participants are treated with dignity and respect. Click here for a full description of our code of conduct.

If you have questions or need help with anything leading up to the meeting, please contact Don Linford.