SparkTank

Spark Tank @ FVSU

An Innovation & Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition empowering FVSU students to turn ideas into impact.

Top teams advance to the University System of Georgia competition and may win up to $25,000.

Registration Deadline: February 9, 2026

Program Overview

Fort Valley State University’s Spark Tank is an innovation and entrepreneurship pitch competition designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking among students.

Participants pitch business or social impact ideas, receive feedback from academic and industry professionals, and compete for the opportunity to represent FVSU at the state-level competition.

2026 Competition Timeline

 
February 2, 2026
Interest Meeting (Jones Student Center Ballroom, 4:00 PM)
Registration Opens
February 9, 2026
Registration Closes
February 16, 2026
Preliminary Competition (Closed Session)
March 2, 2026
Final Competition (Live Pitch)
April 6–7, 2026
State-Level Competition — Atlanta, Georgia

Program Objectives

  • Foster innovation and entrepreneurial mindset among FVSU students
  • Provide hands-on experience in idea development and pitching
  • Connect students with mentors, judges, and entrepreneurial resources
  • Select a top team to represent FVSU at the state-level competition

Example Focus Areas

  • Business or Commercial Ventures
  • Social Impact or Nonprofit Innovation
  • Technology & STEM Innovation (AI)
  • Agriculture, Food, or Sustainability

All innovation and entrepreneurship ideas are welcome.

Competition Structure

Round 1: Closed Qualifying Pitch Round

Teams deliver a 3–5 minute live pitch with slides, followed by judge Q&A.

Final Round: Live Shark Tank–Style Showcase

Finalists pitch in front of judges and a live audience.

Awards & Recognition

  • First Place: Advancement to state-level competition
  • Best Social Impact Idea
  • Most Innovative Concept
  • Audience Choice Award

Contact Information

Ramana Gosukonda, Ph.D.
Email: gosukonr@fvsu.edu
Phone: 478.825.6836

Jazmin Thomas-Pullen, MPA
Email: jazmin.thomas@fvsu.edu
Phone: 478.825.6319