AI Startathon & Big Idea Competition
Turn Your Ideas Into a Startup! | Hosted by GDG Annapolis

November 7–11, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST
 Location: AACC CALT Building, 101 College Parkway, Arnold, MD 21012
 Theme: Build with AI | Hands-on training, mentorship & prizes

Why You Can't Miss This

This isn't just another school project. This is your launchpad. Over 4 action-packed days, you’ll get hands-on AI training from industry experts, build a team, and develop a real-world solution. Then, you'll pitch for cash prizes at the Chesapeake Innovation Summit and get noticed by hundreds of people.

What’s in Store

• Hands-On AI Workshops: Learn how to build AI-powered solutions that solve real-world problems. Beginners welcome!

• Team Formation & Mentorship: Collaborate with AACC students and local professionals while receiving guidance from experienced entrepreneurs.

• Prototype Business Development: Go from concept to Business Plan with expert support.

• Pitch Prep & Video Creation: Create an AI-powered video pitch and a winning presentation for judges.

• Final Competition: Pitch your solution at the Chesapeake Innovation Summit for prizes and recognition.

• Win BIG: Compete for a pool of cash prizes and awards in the Big Idea Competition brought to you by the Entrepreneurial Studies Institute. (You need to team up with an AACC student to qualify)

   First Place: $2,500
   Second Place: $1,000
   Third Place: $500
   Technology Idea Award: $1,000

• 📄 Supercharge Your Resume: Go from "student" to "innovator." Add a real-world project, a competition win, and in-demand skills to your resume and LinkedIn.

• 🚀 Get Mentored: Receive direct guidance from entrepreneurs and industry professionals who have been there and done that.

• ☁️ Free Google Swag & Cloud Credits: Score exclusive gear and the tools you need to build, sponsored by Google Developer Group Annapolis.

Who Should Attend

• Students eager to learn AI

• Entrepreneurs & small business owners

• Developers, engineers, and tech enthusiasts

• Anyone ready to turn a big idea into a real-world solution

HOW IT WORKS (Simple 1-2-3 Graphic):

1. STARTATHON AI (Nov 7-11): Join the virtual kick-off on Friday November 7th, receive AI training, form your team, and build a prototype of your big idea.

2. PITCH PREP: Refine your idea with expert mentors and create a video using AI during November 8,9,10. Submit project on the 11th.

3. BIG IDEA FINALS (Nov 20): A panel of expert judges will review submissions made on November 11th, and Big Idea finalists will be viewed at the innovation summit, where we will announce the prize winners. at the Chesapeake Innovation Summit!

Ready to Build The Future?

Spots are limited and will fill up fast. Register your interest today!