In 2008 a new competition in Central PA challenged businesses and entrepreneurs to come up with environmentally conscious products for a chance to win expert assistance in getting those ideas into the marketplace. Since then the Greenovation contest has helped launch products like water-conserving shower valves and reusable bags for nuts and produce.
Now, the idea launched in Williamsport is spreading to other states. Katie Bell, innovation and market development consultant at the IMC, which helps manufacturers run their businesses more effectively, presented the concept at a national conference this spring. Since then economic development groups in Alabama and Texas have agreed to host Greenovation competitions in their service areas.
“I'm thrilled,” says Bell, who came up with the idea in the first place. “I'm hoping to create this Greenovation movement across the U.S.”
The contest is also scheduled to take place in Pennsylvania in 2012. It's open to startups and established companies in Central Pennsylvania – a loose geographic definition, Bell says – who have an idea for a “green” invention whose production has little impact on the environment. Judging is expected to take place in April.
In future competitions, Bell hopes to tailor each prize package to match the specific services that winning teams need, such as branding or design assistance. She would also like the contests to be split into two categories, one for entrepreneurs and one for established businesses.
Source: Katie Bell, IMC
Writer: Rebecca VanderMeulen