Bronco Challenge
Bronco Challenge
What We Are:
The Bronco Challenge stands as a beacon of sustainable innovation at Western Michigan University, igniting in the Fall Semester of 2022. It’s not just an initiative; it's a transformative experience designed to empower students across all disciplines. This optional yet compelling co-curricular endeavor welcomes every WMU student to embark on a journey of sustainability-driven problem-solving.
Full-time students, from freshman through graduate students, interdisciplinary teams of their own choosing to solve a problem which they select. Their specific charge is to develop and vet a bold, transformative idea for a product, a business, a service or a public policy that solves a global problem or issue embedded in the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The Challenge opens the door for students to work on a problem that aligns with their passion. As a guard rail against wandering into unproductive territory, each team is required to engage as a project mentor someone knowledgeable about the problem they have chosen to solve.
WHAT'S THE CHALLENGE!? | WHY THE CHALLENGE MATTERS!? |
| Envision this: Teams of four, driven by their own commitment, embarking on a journey through the academic year. Their mission? To tackle real-world sustainability challenges head-on. These projects, inspired by the "United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals" (SDGs), serve as the foundation of the Challenge. From tackling poverty to combatting climate change, each endeavor propels us closer to a future that's inclusive, fair, and environmentally aware. | In a world brimming with "Wicked problems" the Bronco Challenge emerges as a beacon of hope. It's a platform where students transcend disciplinary boundaries, tackling complex issues with a diverse lens of expertise. Beyond academic accolades, the Challenge equips students with invaluable problem-solving skills coveted by recruiters worldwide. |
Sustainability & SDGs
At its core, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a call to action echoing from Our Common Future. It’s about reshaping our relationship with the planet and securing a harmonious coexistence for generations to come. The SDGs serve as our compass, guiding each project towards impactful solutions. Ranging from clean water to climate action, these goals outline the blueprint for a better tomorrow. But it's not just about achieving targets; it's about weaving Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) into the fabric of every endeavor.
Join the Movement:
Are you passionate about making a difference? Then buckle up, Broncos! The Bronco Challenge for Sustainable Impact is your chance to tackle real-world problems and craft innovative solutions for a better tomorrow.
The Bronco Challenge is more than a competition; it's a springboard for your sustainability journey. Join us, and become a leader in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and environmentally conscious future.
How Will the Challenge Work?
The Challenge is open to all full-time WMU students in all majors and all levels from freshman thru postgraduate. To participate in the Challenge, students must:
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Prize money:
Get ready to turn your innovative ideas into reality! At the Bronco Challenge, not only do you get to propose solutions with the potential to impact local and global communities, but you also stand a chance to win big. With a total prize pool of $19,000 generously contributed by the University, corporate sponsors, and individual donors, the rewards are as impressive as the projects themselves.
Winners stand to secure substantial financial gains:
(Teams will share the awards equally among their members. So, let your innovative ideas shine and grab your share of the prize money!)
What is UN-SDG??
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs) are like a worldwide to-do list for making our planet a better place by 2030. There are 17 goals covering things like ending poverty, stopping climate change, and making sure everyone has enough food and clean water. They're a way for countries and people all over the world to team up and tackle big problems together. Check out the overview for more info on how you can get involved!
Overview of the All Sustainability Topic
Embark on a journey towards a sustainable future with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each goal represents a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a world of prosperity, equality, and environmental stewardship. Here's a snapshot of what each goal entails:
Eradicate poverty in all its forms, ensuring no one is left behind.
Secure access to nutritious food and promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Ensure healthy lives and well-being for all, at every stage of life.
Provide inclusive and quality education to empower individuals and communities.
Champion gender equality and empower all women and girls.
Ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all, promoting hygiene and sustainability.
Promote renewable energy sources and ensure access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy.
Foster inclusive economic growth, full employment, and decent work for all.
Build resilient infrastructure and foster innovation for sustainable development.
Reduce inequalities within and among countries, ensuring inclusivity and equity.
Create sustainable and resilient cities, ensuring access to basic services and a safe environment.
Promote sustainable consumption and production patterns to minimize waste and environmental impact.
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, protecting our planet for future generations.
Conserve and sustainably use marine resources, preserving ocean ecosystems and biodiversity.
Protect and restore terrestrial ecosystems, promoting sustainable land use and biodiversity conservation.
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies, ensuring access to justice and strong institutions.
Strengthen global partnerships for sustainable development, mobilizing resources and collective action.
Click on each goal to discover its significance and explore actionable steps towards a sustainable world.
Let's unite in our efforts to build a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
(Interest matching tool will be available soon.)
Link: Bronco Challenge Interest Matching Tool
GUIDELINES
Competitors follow guidelines in the 2023-24 Bronco Challenge for Sustainable Impact (BCFSI) Student Playbook.
OUTCOMES FROM YEAR 1 OF THE CHALLENGE
Read about the 2022-23 Year 1 Challenge winners in this WMU News story titled "Sustainable innovation earns Western students a share of $19,000."
CONTACT
The Bronco Challenge Leadership team will be available to meet with teams or individuals to provide guidance and assistance in finding a team, recruiting team members, selecting a project, etc.
Contact Professor Neil Drobny, PhD with any questions: @email