Launch Party: 2026 President's Innovation Challenge

Join us for a high-energy evening as we officially launch this year’s President’s Innovation Challenge (PIC), where Harvard’s boldest thinkers come together to carry on Harvard's tradition of innovation.

Get an inside look at our global venture competition for Harvard founders, why you should participate, and how to make the most of the experience.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Speaking Program: Hear from Jill Kravetz, the Executive Director of the Harvard Innovation Labs. A panel of past PIC winners will share their advice and experiences. Gain insights from past participants and i-lab advisors on what makes a compelling application.
  
• Networking by Track: Connect with fellow students, alumni founders, and i-lab staff while you enjoy small bites and mocktails. Exchange ideas, make new connections, and leave inspired to push your venture forward.
  

ABOUT THE PIC

The President’s Innovation Challenge is a global venture competition for Harvard students and select alumni with unique solutions to pressing problems. Fully matriculated, degree-seeking student founders from all 13 Harvard schools are invited to apply.

While venture competitions may feel intimidating, please don’t count yourself out. We believe great ideas come from all of us, and we encourage founders from all backgrounds –and addressing a full range of topics – to apply. Redefine what’s possible for your venture – and yourself!

Visit innovationlabs.harvard.edu/pic to learn more about the President’s Innovation Challenge and apply by December 8, 2025.

GETTING TO THE HARVARD INNOVATION LABS

The Harvard Innovation Labs is located on the first floor of Batten Hall at 125 Western Avenue, Allston, MA 02134. We are situated on the Harvard Business School campus, a 15-20 minute walk from Harvard Square. You can also use the Harvard shuttle. The University offers daily parking for faculty, staff, students, visitors, and guests in the HBS lot on Western Avenue. The HBS lot is available 24/7 and accepts both cash and credit card payments.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

The Harvard Innovation Labs welcomes attendees of all abilities to our events, both in person and online.

Requests for American Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance, if possible. Please note that the University will make every effort to secure services, but that services are subject to availability.

If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about physical access, please contact i-lab@harvard.edu in advance of the event.

FUTURE COMMUNICATIONS

Please note: By registering, you agree to receive emails about this event and future communications from the Harvard Innovation Labs.