Zingale Big Idea Competition
The Zingale Big Idea Competition focuses on seed-level new business ideas. This annual competition awards a whopping total of $40,000 in prize money among the student winners. This contest emulates the experiences seen on the popular CNBC broadcast, Shark Tank, but with a heart. Unlike Shark Tank, the Zingale Big Idea distinguished panel of judges do more than evaluate business models – they offer constructive feedback, coaching, and encouragement.
The 2027 Zingale Big Idea Competition will be held April 8-10 in Quigley Hall.
2027 Zingale Big Idea Competition
April 8: Rehearsals
April 9: Preliminary Round Competition
April 10: Finalists Compete, Winner Announced
The complete Preliminary Round Competition schedule will be issued the week of April 5.
Workshops are scheduled to help participants prepare for the competition. Those interested in competing in the Zingale Big Idea Competition and/or attending the workshops should contact Entrepreneur in Residence, Professor Chris Allison at callison@allegheny.edu.
Our Previous Competitors
Take a look at some of the previous Zingale competitors.







