PSU Cleantech Challenge aims to inspire a greener environment

Have you dreamed of starting an innovative, environmentally friendly business?

With the Portland State Cleantech Challenge, you can do just that.

The challenge is offering $50,000 in cash prizes for students who come up with an idea that will benefit the environment.

“It’s open to any type of green, environmentally friendly idea,” said Nick Simms, president of the PSU Entrepreneurship Club.

Any student or faculty member team can apply with their idea by May 10 for a chance to become a finalist and receive $5,000 to build a prototype.

Those finalists will pitch their idea next fall for a chance to win the $25,000 grand prize.

“We want to bring everyone together on campus that’s interested in making a greener environment,” Simms said. “We think Portland is a really good place for this.”

For more information, check out the upcoming information session, where you can also receive help putting together an application.

The next information session is Monday, April 29, at 4 p.m. in the Market Center Building, room 127. The Market Center Building is at 1600 SW Fourth Ave.

You can also visit facebook.com/psucleantechchallenge or pdx.edu/clean-challenge for updates and more information.