Welcome to Spark Tank—where big ideas take flight! In this hands-on project, students will step into the role of entrepreneur and inventor, turning their creative sparks into real-world solutions. Whether you imagine a groundbreaking invention, a helpful new product, or a business that could make a difference, Spark Tank is your stage to dream, design, and share.
Your mission: come up with an original idea, sketch out your plan, and explain why your solution matters. Bring your concept to life on a presentation board and show off how it works. Then, pitch your idea to others and see your creativity inspire the whole Epic community. Spark Tank is about problem-solving, innovation, and learning how to turn imagination into action!
What is an Entrepreneur?
An entrepreneur is a person who thinks of new ideas, creates something helpful, or starts a business to share their idea with others. Entrepreneurs are problem solvers and dreamers who make their ideas come to life!
For more information about participating in this exciting learning opportunity, please reach out to:
Kristi Rich Family Engagement kristi.rich@epiccharterschools.org
SPARK TANK
INSTRUCTIONS: GRADES 9-12
Your Spark Tank Challenge:
Come up with a new product, service, or business idea that solves a real problem or makes life better in some way. You’ll create a presentation board to show off your idea and explain your thinking.
Here’s how to get started:
1. Identify a problem & Opportunity
Clearly describe a real problem or unmet need.Explain why this problem matters — who does it affect, and what’s at stake?Back up your statement with at least three credible research facts.Cite all your sources.
2. Create Your Innovation
Write a detailed description of your product, service, or business idea.Explain exactly how it solves the problem or improves life.Show what makes your idea different or better than what’s already out there.
3. Market Research
Identify and research at least one competitor.Explain how your solution stands out or fills a gap.Include statistics, surveys, or interviews if possible.
4. Branding & Design
Choose a name, logo, and slogan for your business or product.Create drawings, diagrams, or digital mock-ups to represent your idea.(Optional) Build
a prototype or model to show how your solution works.
5. Business Structure
Define your team: Who are the key members, and what are their roles?List the resources you need (materials, technology, staff, etc.).Estimate your startup costs — think materials, marketing, labor, and more.Set a selling price and explain how you decided on it.
6. Marketing Plan
Design a plan to launch your idea and reach customers.Promotion: How will you advertise? (social media, flyers, commercials, website, influencers, word of mouth)
Distribution: Where will people find or buy your product? (stores, online, subscriptions, etc.)
Pricing: Explain your strategy for making a profit.Sample Marketing Material: Create a sample ad, flyer, website mockup, or social post.
SPARK TANK
INSTRUCTIONS: GRADES 9-12
PRESENTATION BOARD REQUIREMENTS
Your board should include:
• Business Name & Logo (prominently at the top)
• Problem Statement with Research (include at least 3 facts and sources)
• Marketing Plan (strategies and a sample ad or graphic)
• Visuals (sketches, diagrams, digital mock-ups, photos of your prototype)
PRESENTATION TIPS
• Be professional — you’re pitching your idea like a real entrepreneur.
• Speak clearly and confidently.
• Cover the problem, your solution, the business structure, finances, and your marketing plan.
• Practice answering questions about your idea.
• Be creative and persuasive — imagine you’re asking investors to believe in your business.
Remember: The most successful entrepreneurs combine creativity, research, planning, and courage. Spark Tank is your chance to bring all of those together!
