Student entrepreneurs in the University of Missouri System could earn up to $30,000 in prize money thanks to a new initiative known as the Entrepreneur Quest Student Accelerator. S&T students can learn more during a general information session 5:30-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 24, in Room G-2 of the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building (IDE), next to Makerspace.

Applications for the first program are open through Friday, Oct. 19. Ten semifinalists per university will be selected for the educational program, which will begin on each campus in January. Students will receive dedicated workspace and mentorship from a selection of executives, industry leaders, investors and experts. The individual courses will conclude with demo days and the selection of three finalists, who will receive $15,000 for first place, $10,000 for second and $5,000 for third.

The EQ Student Accelerator is backed by a $250,000 investment from the UM System and includes an eight-week educational program, mentorship opportunities, pitch competitions and significant financial support for finalists from each university.

The finalists from each campus will meet at the Entrepreneurial Educators Summit in April and compete for another chance at $15,000, $10,000 or $5,000.

Applications are open to undergraduate and graduate students. Business ideas can include products or services and be nonprofit or revenue-generating.