What is the $ide Hustle Challenge?

We take control of our lives when we stay true to our passions. With this challenge we will be equipping you all with the skills you need to start, strengthen or grow your side hustle.

Eligibility:

Must be a UCI Undergraduate, Graduate, or PhD student ***If you are an International Student you need to talk with us, as there are restrictions on your ability to earn money. There might be some options where you can participate for the experience, without making money. 

Max 3 teammates

Rules:

Register for Challenge HERE (4/22 @ 11:59pm) – (NOTE, the SSO login will give you an error, please sign up for the Challenge on StartupTree by entering your UCI email and coming up with a password. Please email riossl@uci.edu if you have any issues. 

Submit Elevator Pitch Video (4/22 @ 11:59pm)

Pitch video should be brief description on what your side hustle is, what are you selling (product/service), and why you chose this side hustle!

1. 1. Maximum pitch video length 2 minutes
   2. Pitch videos have to be submitted through StartupTree
   3. Video MUST be a public accessible link (google drive, youtube, etc)
   4. Attend mandatory Finance & Legal Workshop
   5. *if you cannot attend in person reach out to riossl@uci.edu for recording/deliverableAttend Mandatory Office Hours

1. 1st check-in Week 52nd check-in Week 7
2. Completed Required Ledger (May 24th 11:59pm)
3. Complete Final Poster for MarketPlace (May 29th 11:59 pm)

Why Participate?

• Hands-on Experience: From launching your idea to managing finances, gain practical skills in entrepreneurship.
• Cross-Disciplinary Engagement: Connect with students from all fields of study and foster collaboration.
• Community Marketplace: Showcase and sell your products or services at our finale marketplace event, open to the community.
• Expert Guidance: Attend workshops and receive mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry professionals.

Key Dates

Thanks to our sponsors: Blackstone LaunchPad, Siemens, GoZigZag, United Nations Association of Orange County, Parker Dewey, Udemy, and Skinesque!

$ide Hustle Challenge Kickoff 5-6pm  

🎨🚀 Elevate your Side Hustle with our Boothing & Branding Workshop! 🛠️ On April 11th, discover everything you need for a standout Semi-final submission and master the marketing skills for Irvine Tech Week. 💡 Learn from the pros on how to present and promote your innovative ideas. Don’t miss this key step to making your project shine!

Mandatory Finance/LegalWorkshop 5-6pm  

💼📊 Dive into the essentials at our Mandatory Finance and Legal Workshop! Whether you join us live or catch up with the recording, this session is key to your success in the competition and beyond. Learn REAL financial skills and legal know-hows that will empower your venture now and in the future. Don’t miss out on this critical step towards entrepreneurial mastery!

E-Commerce Workshop 5-6pm  

🛒💡 Ready to turn clicks into customers? Join our E-commerce/Sales Workshop! 🚀🌐 Learn the essentials of creating and selling online, from e-commerce foundations to best sales practices. Whether you’re launching a product or service, we’ll equip you with the tools for online success. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to conquer the digital marketplace!

“Side hustles are a way to gain more freedom outside of traditional corporate life. there is less pressure to build a team, and you get to monetize your passions and stay true to what makes you happy.”