Do I need any previous experience to participate in the Innovation Challenge?

No. For many delegates, HIC is their first professional conference and students of all skill levels are welcome!

What is an Innovation Conference?

The Harvard Innovation Challenge brings the region's most promising high school and university students together to create innovative solutions to some of the region's most pressing issues. When filling out the application, students will be asked to select one of two tracks. Within each track, students will hear from local leading speakers about issues currently affecting their region. Students will discuss in an open platform and also learn about the art of solution design, public speaking, entrepreneurship ideation, and pitching from Harvard students. At the end of the conference, students will pitch their solution proposals in a closing competition. We are bringing innovative thinking abroad. We are bringing Harvard abroad.

What is a track?

Tracks change for every HIC SEA Challenge. Students select a track upon applying, which will focus their research efforts during the competition. Each track has unique speakers, debates, and workshops for students to partake in. All students who select the same track will be given the same prompt. Prompts will describe a regional issue relating to the theme of the track, asking students to create an innovative solution to these problems.

Can I switch tracks after registering?

No. Upon submitting the initial application form, students will not be able to switch tracks. We advise you read each track description before submitting your application, as your decision will be final.

What is the structure of the conference?

During the first day of the conference, delegates will be welcomed by Harvard college students and a Keynote Speaker. Then delegates will get the opportunity to meet their teammates for the Solution Proposals. The second and third day will comprise of presentations by leading professors, entrepreneurs, and officials about the issues related to their track. In Track Sessions, delegates are guided by chairs entirely comprised of Harvard students. Delegates will be prompted with workshop, discussion, and presentation activities whilst being taught key issues and skills by Harvard students. Finally, teams will present their solution proposals to a panel of judges composed of Harvard students, leading leaders around the region, and other organizers. Teams with the most innovative and attainable pitches will be awarded during the conference's closing ceremony. Individual delegates will also have their efforts recognized. A final judging rubric will be released closer to the date of the conference.