At UC Berkeley, the Big Ideas Contest isn’t just about competition—it’s about transformation. For nearly two decades, this year-long innovation program has empowered interdisciplinary student teams to develop bold solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges. With more than 10,000 students participating in over 3,500 proposals, the contest has sparked ventures that have collectively attracted an astounding $1.2 billion in additional funding, with half evolving into registered entities.
For the 2024-2025 cycle, 15 teams have reached the finalist stage, where they are refining their groundbreaking ideas with the help of industry mentors—including leaders from UC Systemwide Procurement (SWP). With a deep commitment to fostering economic impact, supplier diversity, and innovation, SWP is playing a pivotal role in equipping these young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to bring their ideas to life.
Big Ideas = Bold Impact: SWP Champions Student Entrepreneurs
On March 6, 2025, finalists participated in the Supply Chain Diversity Innovation Workshop, where Abim Odusoga, SWP’s Director for Economic Impact, led an engaging session on "The Intersection Between Supply Chain Management and Supplier Diversity." His insights emphasized the far-reaching benefits of diverse supplier integration, highlighting how it strengthens local economies, enhances business resilience, and creates sustainable opportunities.
Beyond procurement, Ashley Allred, SWP’s Director of Procurement Innovation & Improvement, advised five of the fifteen finalist Big Ideas teams on perfecting their elevator pitches in the Pitch Practice & Rapid Feedback session on March 11. Ashley helped finalists craft compelling narratives to resonate with stakeholders, investors, and decision-makers by sharpening their clarity and conciseness to amplify their impact.
Investing in the Next Generation
In supporting the Big Ideas Contest, SWP is investing in the next generation of changemakers—those who will drive sustainability, equity, and economic impact across industries. Whether through making the world accessible to deaf people, amplifying marginalized voices with film, or accessible financial services, these student-led ventures are poised to make a lasting difference.
UC Procurement’s role in this initiative underscores a simple but powerful truth: when we integrate innovation, equity, and strategic sourcing, we create a ripple effect of positive change. And that’s a big idea worth investing in.