Idea to Action Incubator

Butler University, Indianapolis, Indiana
Butler University, Dugan Hall, Suite 234 (625 Butler Way, Indianapolis, IN 46208)

Day Two: Pitch Competition

November 6

(attend in-person only)

Day Two Registration

About the event

The Idea to Action Incubator is a dynamic two-part experience designed to help project teams and individuals move from an idea to an implementable community engagement initiative through expert guidance, feedback, practical tools, and meaningful connections. Whether you are refining an early concept or strengthening a program already in motion, the incubator is designed to help you leave with a clearer plan, stronger partnerships, and a project that is ready to implement.

New this year

Takes place over two days, about one month apart, to give teams time to apply what they've learned, test assumptions, and return ready to present an actionable pitch or prepare a poster.
Day One includes all workshops and a virtual attendance option.
Day Two includes coaching, project management breakouts, a keynote, a poster session, and the pitch competition

Pitch Competition Grand Prize: $5,000 Grant

Day Two: Pitch Competition

Date: November 6, 2026

Location: Butler University

Day Two is a focused, in-person experience for anyone who wants to strengthen a community-engaged project, learn from peers, and connect with partners across the state. The morning features coaching, project management breakouts, and time to refine ideas. After lunch, we move into the pitch competition, followed by networking and a poster session.

You do not need to pitch to benefit from Day Two. Coaching, breakout sessions, and the keynote are designed to be useful for a wide range of roles across campuses and community organizations.

Project teams competing in the pitch competition will have 7 minutes to deliver a focused, high-impact pitch followed by a 2-minute Q&A from the judges. Pitch competition teams must consist of at least one representative from a CEA member campus and one representative from a community partner

Pitch spots are limited: If you intend to pitch, we strongly recommend registering early. There will be only 10 teams selected for the pitch competition.

This intentional gap between Day One and Day Two allows teams time to apply what they learned, strengthen their proposals, and return ready to present a high-quality, actionable project.

Registration: In-Person Only

Cost:

$35 CEA Members*
$100 Non-CEA Members
Free for Students

*faculty, staff, and community partners

Day Two Registration:

November 6, 2026

Day two: in-person registration

Pitch Competition teams are required to participate in Day One.

Coaches will be available for sign up by May 31. Individualized coaching appointment times are limited.

Who should attend?

This event is tailored for:

Project teams from CEA member campuses, including students, faculty, staff, and community partners. Individuals who wish to compete in the pitch competition must participate as part of a project team. Project teams must consist of at least one representative from a CEA member campus and one community representative. Student participation on project teams is also strongly encouraged. There is no limit to the number of project teams that can participate from a CEA member campus.
Poster presenters who want to share work, spark new connections, and learn from other projects
Individual attendees interested in professional development, community engagement practice, and networking (even if you are not pitching)
Higher education professionals interested in community engagement.
Community organizations seeking partnerships with higher education institutions.
Donors exploring town-gown partnerships and impactful community initiatives.