FAQ

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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🧠 THE BASICS

What is the "What About This?" Innovation Challenge?
 

It’s a fast-paced, weekend-long innovation challenge where undergraduate students team up to solve real-world problems related to Maine’s ocean and seafood economy. The best part? The top team wins a trip to Iceland — a global leader in sustainability and blue economy innovation.
 

When and where is it happening?
 

The challenge takes place from Thursday March 5 through Sunday, March 8. Official events will be held on the University of Southern Maine’s Portland campus, while students are welcome to work with their team wherever they are most comfortable. Expect a kickoff on Thursday evening and a final pitch event Sunday afternoon. The final agenda will be released in early 2026.
 

Who can participate?
 

Any current undergraduate student can participate — no matter your major, experience level, or background. Whether you’re into science, business, art, tech, or just love good ideas, you’re welcome here.

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When and where do I register?

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The team formation and application period officially begins on Tuesday February 3, 2026.

 

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👥 TEAMING UP

 

Do I need a team to register?

 

Nope! You can register solo, with a friend, or as a full team. If you’re flying solo, we’ll match you with a great team during the Friday kickoff.

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How many people are on a team?

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Teams will be 2–4 students. It’s the perfect size to collaborate, divide up tasks, and have fun without feeling overwhelmed.

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Can I invite friends from other schools?

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Currently, the challenge is open to undergraduate students enrolled at USM or partner institutions.

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🔍 THE CHALLENGE ITSELF

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What’s the challenge prompt?

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The theme or "challenge statement" will be released on Thursday, March 5, 2026 during the kickoff session. Don't worry, you'll get more info in the weeks before so you'll be ready to go as soon as the challenge statement is released.

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Do I need an idea before I arrive?

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Not at all. You’ll receive the full challenge prompt at the kickoff session, then you'll brainstorm, build, and refine ideas throughout the weekend with your team.

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Can I use AI tools like ChatGPT or design platforms?

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Yes — and we encourage it! AI isn’t cheating, it’s your superpower. Use tools like ChatGPT, Canva, Figma, and others to sharpen your concept, visuals, or pitch. More information on AI tools will be made available.

 

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📅 WEEKEND SCHEDULE & COMMITMENT

 

What does the weekend schedule look like?

 

Here’s the schedule:

• Thursday, March 5, 2026: Evening kickoff event, teams, receive the challenge prompt, initial workshops

• Friday, March 6 - Sunday, March 8, 2026: Work time, mentorship, idea development, pitch practice

• Sunday, March 8, 2026: Evening event with Pitch presentations, judging, celebration! Winners announced.

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Do I have to attend/be available the entire weekend?

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Yes — it’s a team effort and the full experience is what makes it fun and meaningful. We know life gets busy but committing to the full weekend is required.

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What will the judging criteria be?

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Judging criteria will be released a few days before the weekend kicks off.

 

🏆 THE ICELAND PRIZE

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How does the Iceland trip work?

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The winning team will travel to Iceland to attend Iceland Innovation Week (week of April 26, 2026) and explore the country’s world-renowned sustainability and seafood innovation ecosystem.

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Do I need a passport?

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Yes — start the renewal or application process now if you don’t have one. Don’t wait — travel documents can take time! Apply or renew your passport here -https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html

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What’s included in the trip?

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Your flights, accommodations, meals, and Innovation Week passes for the winning team will be paid for. More details will be shared in early 2026.

 

💡 SUPPORT & RESOURCES

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Will we have access to mentors?

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Throughout the weekend, you’ll be supported by faculty, industry experts, entrepreneurs, and innovation coaches. They’re here to guide your thinking and help you stay on track.

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Can teams talk to professors, family, or friends for advice?

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Of course! This is about collaboration and support — use your networks, bounce ideas off your people, and make it your own.

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Are there resources or examples to help us get started?

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Yes! You’ll get access to a toolkit with links to:

• A list of faculty and innovation mentors that can help along the way

• Design thinking frameworks

• AI tools and tips for pitching

 

📣 GETTING INVOLVED

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How do I sign up?

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Signups will officially open on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. A link will be posted on the event website that will guide you through the process.

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What do I need?

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Your curiosity, and your energy. Laptops are helpful, but if you or your team doesn't have access to one, please let us know and we'll do our best to assist you. 

 

Is there a cost to participate?

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No — What About This is 100% free to join.

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📆 IMPORTANT DATES

 

2025

 

Tuesday, December 9, 2026 — Official Launch

 

Full program details go live!

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2026

 

Tuesday, January 27, 2026 — Informational Session

 

Join us in person or on Zoom at the McGoldrick Center to learn how it all works.

 

Tuesday, February 3 – Wednesday, March 4, 2026 — Team Formation & Application Period

 

Form a team (or sign up solo and we’ll help match you).

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Thursday, March 5 – Monday, March 9, 2026 — Innovation Challenge Weekend

• March 5 (Thursday): Kickoff event

• March 7–8: Team work time

• March 8 (Sunday): Final pitches, judging, and winners announced!

 

April 28–30, 2026 — Iceland Innovation Week 🇮🇸

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The winning team represents USM and Maine at Iceland Innovation Week — exploring the world’s seafood innovation capital firsthand.