Spark Series
Where Ideas Turn Into Action
Spark Series is UIC’s open-door community for students who want to learn entrepreneurship by doing it. Whether you’re curious about starting something, already building, or just want to find your people, Spark Series gives you a place to jump in, experiment, and take action—no experience required.
This is not about having the perfect startup idea. It’s about showing up, testing ideas, learning fast, and moving forward together. Spark Series welcomes all UIC students—undergraduate and graduate, from every major—and supports all kinds of ventures, including startups, small businesses, side hustles, nonprofits, and passion projects. If you’re motivated to build something meaningful, you belong here.
What You'll Find In Spark Series
A Community of Builders
Connect with students, alumni founders, mentors, and campus partners who want to help you grow. You don’t have to go it alone.
Learn by Doing
From fast-paced idea sprints to hands-on workshops and real pitch opportunities, Spark Series is built around experiential learning. You’ll test ideas, build prototypes, get feedback, and improve—quickly.
Open Access, Real Support
No application. No gatekeeping. No pressure to be tech-focused or high-growth. Spark Series meets you where you are and helps you take the next step—whatever that looks like.
Signature Spark Series Events
- Entrepreneurship Expo (Fall): Your entry point to entrepreneurship at UIC.
- Flashpoint Pitch Challenge (Fall): A high-energy, one-night idea sprint and pitch event.
- Demo Day (Spring): Showcase what you’re building and get real feedback. Demo Day will be February 25, 2026. Sign up for Demo Day here!
- Blaze Venture Challenge (Spring): UIC’s campus-wide pitch competition with cash prizes.
Founder Series and Workshops
Between anchor events, Spark Series features founder talks with UIC alumni and hands-on workshops focused on idea generation, customer discovery, prototyping, business models, and pitch development.
Fall sessions emphasize inspiration and exploration. Spring sessions emphasize building, testing, and refining.
Start Where You Are
You don’t need to come with a business plan.
You don’t need to come with a team.
You don’t need permission.
If you’re ready to explore entrepreneurship, join a supportive community, and take action to turn your ideas into reality Spark Series is for you.
