Boost your CV, develop in demand employability skills by taking part in the University of Aberdeen's Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2026!
Show employers clear evidence that you can solve problems, think creatively, and take initiative with the Lightbulb Ideas Competition Certificate of Achievement.
What is Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2026?
Lightbulb Ideas is the University of Aberdeen's annual entrepreneurship challenge.
On three consecutive Wednesdays on campus, participants will work in small groups or individually to:
- Come up with innovative ideas that tackle real world problems,
- Explore the possibility of turning these ideas into a real business or social enterprise,
- Craft a compelling story to showcase their idea and
- Pitch to our panel of judges to win funding for their idea.
There are cash prizes to be won from our £3,600 prize pot!
Participants receive a Certificate of Achievement upon completion of the competition. This year's 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th prizes are sponsored by the Engineers and Scientists in Business Fellowship (ESBF).
Free pizza lunches and drinks will be served!
Objectives of the competition
The Lightbulb Ideas Competition is designed to inspire entrepreneurial thinking among the student community – undergraduates, post graduate taught and research students.
Also, to help participants develop skills for the future, network, validate any business idea you have, and a chance to secure funding.
This FREE competition provides the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take the first step toward turning ideas into impactful ventures.
Boost your CV – participants get a Certificate of Achievement upon completion.
Put your knowledge into practiceImprove your communication and public speaking skills, refine your creativity, boost your confidenceNetwork with like-minded peers and professionals
Who can take part?
Open to all University of Aberdeen students and recent graduates (within the last two years) who are driven to solve real-world problems, such as social issues, technological gaps, or market needs they’ve personally experienced.
- Business experience is NOT required – just an open mind, ambition and a passion to try something new and exciting!
- Students with or without an idea can apply.
- Individuals and teams can apply.
If you have any questions, please email abventures@abdn.ac.uk
Prizes to be won:
- Participants who pitch will each receive a Certificate of Achievement
- 1st place – £1,600 (Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2025 1st prize money is sponsored by the Engineers in Business Fellowship (EIBF))
- 2nd place – £800 (Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2025 2nd prize money is sponsored by the Engineers in Business Fellowship (EIBF))
- 3rd place – £400 (Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2025 3rd prize money is sponsored by the Engineers in Business Fellowship (EIBF))
- 4th place - £200 (Lightbulb Ideas Competition 2025 4th prize money is sponsored by the Engineers in Business Fellowship (EIBF))
- 5th place - £100
- Audience Choice – Idea: £150
- Audience Choice – Finale Pitch: £150
- Judges' Choice – Pitch: £150
How to enter the competition:
Spaces are limited—sign up now!
Click here: https://forms.office.com/e/h6QbKr1snK
Please read the Lightbulb Business Idea competition 2026 Terms and Conditions found on this LINK in full.
Application deadline – 15th February 2026
- Booking
- Online booking available