Got an idea that makes a difference?

FUND YOUR IMPACT. BUILD YOUR VENTURE. CHANGE YOUR COMMUNITY. 

The Danielle Alexandra & Richard L. Clemmer Social Entrepreneurship Program and the Graduate School in association with the Texas Tech Innovation Hub present the Social Entrepreneurship Challenge empowers Texas Tech students to transform bold ideas into viable, scalable social ventures. This program recognizes and supports student innovators who are creating measurable impact for communities and the environment.

Award recipients receive milestone-based funding, mentorship, and a one-year Innovation Hub membership to help them move from vision to validated impact. Applications for this funding round are open until Friday, October 31st.

APPLY NOW

What is social entrepreneurship?

Social entrepreneurship applies the tools of entrepreneurship, including creativity, resourcefulness, and strategic planning, to launch ventures that create both social value and long-term impact. Unlike traditional businesses that focus solely on profit, social ventures balance financial sustainability with a mission to improve communities and society. This can take the form of nonprofits, for-profits, or hybrid models, but the goal is the same: to design scalable solutions that transform lives and generate positive change.

Who can apply?

The Social Entrepreneurship Challenge is open to all Texas Tech University System students-- undergrad or grad, any major, any college. Early-stage ideas and ventures are welcome. Do we have to have a formed business? No official business entity is required to apply.

Why apply?

Transform your mission into action

• Validate your solution through real-world testing
• Build a prototype, pilot, or program that delivers measurable results
• Access mentorship and guidance from Innovation Hub experts

Strengthen your long-term success

• Develop a roadmap for sustained impact
• Become competitive for future opportunities like the Accelerator or I-Corps

Funding & Awards

Award funding is tied to milestone achievements rather than a single prize payout. Participants selected as award recipients will recieve support disbursed in phases as they meet pre-defined progress goals within a six-month period. 

Note: Awards are contingent upon viability, scalability, and impact. If submissions do not meet the program's standards or donor vision, the number or amount of awards may be modified or withheld.

How do I apply?

STEP ONE

Review the FAQs & Application Guide and application resources listed below. 

• FAQs & Application Guide
• Cory Ames's 3-Part Social Entrepreneurship Video Series (Part I, Part II, Part III)

STEP TWO

Create your 5-minute video. After developing an outline for a viable social venture, create a video (max 5-minutes) explaining your idea. This is your chance to be creative! Upload the video to YouTube and make it a "public" video. Need help? We got you! Follow these instructions.

STEP THREE

Complete the online application. Click the button below to launch the application portal. Submit answers to the application questions and the YouTube link for your video. Applications for the Fall 2025 Social Entrepreneurship Challenge close on October 31st at 11:59PM. Got questions? Reach out to Taysha Williams for help.