College of Marin Ideation Challenge
Your Idea. Our Future.
As part of College of Marin’s (COM) centennial celebrations, we’re inviting students to dream big—and make a difference. The Ideation Challenge is your opportunity to pitch an innovative, impactful, and achievable idea that could improve student life, campus experiences, or our connection with the Marin community.
Winning proposals will receive cash awards, public recognition, and—most importantly—the chance to bring their idea to life with support from the College.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking creative proposals that meet the following criteria:
- Outside the box – Unique, bold ideas
- Real impact – Something that makes COM better for students, faculty, or the wider Marin community
- Realistic and achievable – Big is great, but it should be doable
Potential Submission Areas
You can propose ideas in any area, but some of our favorite themes include:
Student Experience: New events, clubs, wellness programs, or support systems
Campus Infrastructure: Improvements to study spaces, signage, accessibility, or campus design
Community Engagement: Ways to build stronger ties between COM and Marin
Technology & Innovation: New uses of tech for teaching, learning, or operations
Sustainability & Environmental Impact: Eco-friendly improvements, waste reduction, or green design
Wildcard: Got something else? Go for it!
Submit Your Idea as an Individual or Group*. Here’s How to Enter:
- Submit a proposal that explains your idea, its potential impact, and how it could be implemented.
- Include a simple action plan with timeline, resources, and any estimated costs.
- Optional: Add visuals like a sketch, video, or mockup to help bring your idea to life.
Submit Your Idea – Click Here
Finalists will be invited to present their ideas to a panel of alumni, employees, and community leaders.
Key Dates
Challenge Launch: October 16, 2025
Submission Deadline: December 19, 2025
Panel Presentations: January–March 2026
Winner Announced: April 2026
Implementation Begins: Fall 2026 (or sooner!)
Awards & Recognition
Grand Prize
- $5000 Award
- Idea implemented at COM
- Featured on the COM website and social media
- Public recognition at the Centennial Gala
Runner-Up Awards
- $2500 Award for 2nd Place
- $1000 Award for 3rd Place
Honorable mention
- Smaller prizes and publication of your idea
*Prize for a winning group submission will be divided evenly among the group.
Why It Matters
This is more than a contest—it’s your chance to leave a legacy.
We’re looking for students who are ready to lead and imagine a better College of Marin. Finalists will get to share their vision with influential alumni, community leaders, and the broader COM family. Your idea could shape the next 100 years.