Workshops and Networking
CONNECT events are an opportunity for entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and anyone interested in entrepreneurship and innovation to network and form meaningful relationships.
​
Community Engagement Events offer educational and networking opportunities through Lunch & Learns, workshops, and other gatherings that support entrepreneurs and community members alike.
Annual Spring Pitch Competition
Our Annual Pitch Competition brings together innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to present their business ideas in a high-energy, professional setting. Contestants pitch their ventures to a panel of judges composed of investors, industry experts, and seasoned mentors. Finalists compete for prizes including seed funding, mentorship packages, and visibility within the regional entrepreneurship community. To be considered for this year’s event, be sure to complete the signup form linked below.
Turn off pop-up blockers if you have issues seeing this form. If you still have problems contact info@thepolymerinstitute.com
Winter Practice Pitch
Get a head start on your big ideas! Our Winter Practice Pitch is an opportunity for innovators, entrepreneurs, and students to test their concepts in front of a supportive audience before the main pitch competition in May. Participants will receive constructive feedback to strengthen their presentations, refine their messaging, and boost their confidence. Whether you’re polishing a business plan or exploring a new idea, this practice round is designed to help you grow and prepare for success.
MPI SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGE
Join us for a hands-on challenge focused on reducing plastic waste and inspiring creative solutions for a more sustainable future. This event targets hard-to-recycle plastics such as polystyrene, PVC, films, and plastic bags. Participants may choose between two tracks. In the Innovation Track, teams design a scalable and commercially viable product or business that repurposes these plastics and diverts them from landfills through recycling, reuse, or reinvention. In the Art Track, participants transform the same materials into meaningful artwork that highlights environmental impact and the potential of creative reuse. This challenge empowers entrepreneurs, makers, and artists to turn plastic waste into opportunity.