Idea to Prototype (I2P), part of the CREATE-X initiative, is Georgia Tech’s only undergraduate research course that allows all students (of all majors) to receive research credits, mentorship, and a financial grant to build their invention idea into a fully functioning prototype. And the best part? Instead of a final exam, these students present their accomplishments during the I2P Showcase, a competitive expo held each year in the Klaus Atrium.

I2P is a unique experience for collegiate inventors. By providing guidance and financial grants to these students, they are able to creatively build their idea into a fully functioning prototype. However, equally important to all of this is the course credit involved.

“Personally, I2P has given me the opportunity to put aside time for our project and make sure it is a priority just as much as any other class I am taking, because we are receiving course credit.” Said Sarah Selim, 2-time participant in Idea to Prototype.

Selim’s team, CPAP for Kids, is a great example of the beauty of the Idea to Prototype course: Three different specialties working in tandem to create a well rounded prototype, well preparing them for the many multi-faceted teams in their future. This ability to form teams of their own proves to be an asset for many students.

“My end goal was to exercise and cultivate my innovative mind, with across niche of like-minded friends across multiple backgrounds. My participation with I2P has provided me a platform to do as such, and has given my experience at Georgia Tech, so far, more substance. I2P has allowed me to structure the knowledge and skills I have cultivated in my Georgia Tech classes and put into real-world innovative applications.” Said Olatide Omojaro, 1st place winner of the Fall 2016 Idea to Prototype Showcase.

The combination of I2P’s unique features proves to be a formula for success in many of these teams. I2P both encourages and adequately prepares students for their next step in their invention and entrepreneurship endeavors, such as competing in the InVenture Prize, continuing into Capstone Design, or even applying for Startup Launch.

Selim’s team, CPAP for Kids, continues to move toward success after their 2 semesters of Idea to Prototype enrollement. She said, “... After working for a year on our project, we now have a functional prototype and a working partnership with CHOA doctors to receive feedback on our medical device.”

Out of the 26 teams building their invention ideas this year, do you want to see who wins first place at the 2017 Showcase? Join us Thursday, April 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Klaus Atrium. To attend, click here! 

Pictured: Fall 2016 1st Place Winners, Team Aquarius

Sam Youngdale (ME 2017), Elie Ghossain (ME 2017), Daniel Albequerque (EE), Olatide Omojaro (CS 2018)

Pictured: Sarah Selim (ME 2018), Katie Jordan (BME 2018), Virgil Shah (ISyE 2018)