Students looking to start their own businesses have a shot at winning tens of thousands in funding for their visions as part of The Proving Ground at USC. The organization is officially accepting applications for the 2016 competition, the seventh installment of the project.
Entrants will have a chance to earn a piece of $52,000 in funding. The winnings are divided between the Maxient Innovative Prize, Avenir Discovery Prize and SCRA Technology Ventures Fan Favorite Prize.
Creators' work culminates in a competition between eight finalists based on the television show "Shark Tank" held in conjunction with Carolina Productions. This year's finale is scheduled for Nov. 17.
Prospective participants had the chance to learn more about the 2016 Proving Ground, a partnership between Faber Entrepreneurship Center, the Office of Economic Engagement, EngenuitySC and Carolina Productions, at information sessions held on Wednesday and Sept. 21.
The deadline for applications is Oct. 28. Students from USC's eight satelite campuses and alumni from the Class of 2011 and later are also eligible. Participants can work on their own or in teams of up to four people.