Join Austin Community College (ACC) faculty for the inaugural Spark Tank Pitch Competition. Attendees won’t just be treated to great food and the chance to support innovative faculty–they will vote on the winning teams! This high-energy “Shark Tank”–style event showcases faculty pitching transformative teaching ideas centered on the core pillars of innovation, inclusion, and creativity.
Event Details
Date: Friday, April 3, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Highland Campus (Building 2000, Presentation Hall, Room 1550) or online via Zoom
Selected innovators will present their proposals live to a panel of reviewers, competing for direct grant funding to prototype projects that bridge equity gaps and enhance the student learning experience.
More than a competition, Spark Tank transforms a traditional grant process into an engaging professional learning and networking experience. Attendees will hear creative ideas from across the College, connect with colleagues, and see how innovative concepts move from inspiration to implementation.
What to Expect
The Spark Tank Pitch competition offers a dynamic look at innovative teaching ideas from across the College. During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Watch live faculty pitches and negotiations with the panel of “Sharks”
- Learn about innovative teaching ideas designed to advance student success
- Be there for the exciting moment when grant winners are announced live!
Attend In Person or Online
Participants can attend in person at the Highland Campus or online via Zoom.
In-person attendees will be provided with delicious breakfast, lunch, dessert, and snacks throughout the day, and a chance to win several raffle prizes. In addition, in-person attendees will have the opportunity to talk to the presenters about their pitch before voting on the winning teams.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own teaching, curious about emerging ideas at ACC, or simply want to support your colleagues, the Spark Tank Pitch Competition promises to be an engaging and energizing event.