Media+Tech Collective Presents:
Ron Rizzuto
2026 Innovation Challenge
From left to right: Sally Huriaux (Judge-Comcast), Jeremy Miller (Judge-Coravant), Zach Santulli (Student-DU), Ryan Seim (MTC President), Florian Weinzier (Student-DU), Ron Rizzuto (MTC-Chalenge co-founder), Ed Mordini (Student-DU), Terrence Regan (Student-DU), William Eckert (Student-DU), Holly Hinze (Judge-Spectrum)
Since its inception in 2007, the Ron Rizzuto Innovation Challenge has connected Colorado students with real-world challenges in the media and technology industries. Hosted by the Media+Tech Collective, the competition gives participants the opportunity to research complex industry issues, develop innovative solutions, work with industry mentors and present their ideas to media and technology leaders.
Open to graduate students from Colorado universities, the Challenge brings together emerging talent and industry professionals to exchange ideas, build connections and develop solutions to real-world media and technology challenges.
Benefits Include:
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Mentorship from Industry Leaders: Work directly with an experienced media or technology professional throughout the competition.
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$6,000 in Cash Prizes: Compete for a share of the $6,000 prize pool.
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Industry Connections: Build relationships with mentors, judges and media + technology leaders.
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Present Your Ideas: Pitch your solution to industry leaders and, if selected, present live at the finals.
Ready to take on the 2026 Challenge? Teams of 3–5 graduate students can apply through September 27.
INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS: GET INVOLVED
Help Shape the Next Generation of Media + Tech Leaders
The 2026 Innovation Challenge connects Colorado students with experienced media and technology professionals who can share real-world perspective, provide feedback and help students strengthen their ideas.
MENTOR A TEAM
Guide one student team through the competition and provide industry perspective along the way.
JUDGE THE FIRST ROUND
Review student presentations virtually, provide feedback and help identify the teams advancing to the finals.
PRESENT A WEBINAR
Share practical expertise through a short virtual session on topics such as leadership, innovation, AI, trust, media or technology.
Most opportunities are virtual, with the live finals taking place November 6, 2026.
READY TO GET INVOLVED?
Complete the form below and let us know how you'd like to participate. We'll follow up with next steps.