optiMize Challenge Overview
2026-2027
SIC Orientation
(slides will be posted on orientation day!)
September 20, 2026
Workshop Resources
Slides will be posted after each workshop
Workshop 1
Social Innovation, Visioning and Mentorship
September 27, 2026
What’s included:
Slides on visioning, identities, stakeholder identification and overview of the SIC (will be posted on workshop day!)
Workshop 2
Problem and Stakeholder Identification & Exploration
October 11, 2026
What’s included:
Slides on stakeholder engagement and mentorship (will be posted on workshop day!)
Workshop 3
Value Propositions & Ideation
October 25, 2026
What’s included:
Slides on value propositions and ideations (will be posted on workshop day!)
Stakeholder Persona template
Whats Included
Slides and resources from Needs and Leads (will be posted on workshop day!)
Workshop 4: Needs and Leads
November 1, 2026
Workshop 5
Prototyping
November 15, 2026
What’s included:
Slides on prototyping (will be posted on workshop day!)
Build Your Prototype
December 6, 2026
What’s included:
Slides on creating testing your prototype (will be posted on workshop day!)
Workshop 6
Prototype showcase and budgeting
January 24, 2027
What’s included:
Slides on budgeting, presenting your prototype, and incorporating feedback
What’s included:
Slides on storytelling and pitching
Workshop 7
Storytelling
January 31, 2027
Additional Resources
Mentorship
Mentorship is a key component to a positive and successful experience. We have a vast network of mentors who are eager to assist you.
More Resources
Whats Included:
Resources to help you with project and beyond!