Calling All Einsteins
By Kristine Reilly, student writer
External Affairs and University Relations

This semester, the University of Hawai‘i is offering inventive students a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity. The Office of Technology Transfer and Economic Development (OTTED), which manages inventions and discoveries at UH, has organized the first UH Student Invention Competition. Winners will be given $500 for first place, $300 for second place and $200 for third place.

OTTED is looking for practical inventions that are both useful and potentially marketable to the public. A revolutionary gardening tool, a toy for children, or a voice-activated vacuum are a few examples. The only requirements are that the invention be tangible, and the original concept and design of the students.

The competition is restricted to UH undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the spring 2003 semester. Participants may enter as individuals or in a team with other eligible students.

A judging panel of Hawai’i business professionals and UH representatives will select up to 10 finalists, who will then be required to make a working prototype of their invention for the final competition.

Finalists could be eligible for reimbursement of up to $250 for prototype development costs. Students may also choose to work with OTTED on commercializing their invention—including patenting, licensing and marketing to interested companies. In addition, students can share in a percentage of the revenue OTTED receives for their invention.

Entry forms are available from OTTED and are due Feb. 20. Finalists will be selected in March and the final competition held in May. The UH Student Invention Competition is funded under an award from the 2002-2003 UH Educational Improvement Fund. Please contact OTTED with any questions, (808) 539-3829 or e-mail otted@hawaii.edu.