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About the Competition

USC’s Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering presents the annual Das Family CEE Student Competition: INNOVATEXLA — a $20K challenge inviting USC students to design innovative solutions for Los Angeles’ most pressing issues. Interdisciplinary teams will develop real-world ideas, refine their pitches, and receive guidance from industry leaders, faculty, and startup founders.

Upcoming Sessions

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Watch What’s Coming to Design Day!
KICKOFF NOV 20 @ 5 PM

Location
RONALD TUTOR HALL (RTH 526)

3710 McClintock Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90089

SEE THE JOURNEY OF LAST YEARS TEAMS

Grand Prize

$20K

We’re looking for cross-disciplinary teams of USC students—undergraduate and graduate—who can bring bold, practical ideas to life and help make Los Angeles a stronger, smarter, and healthier city for generations to come.

Opportunities for Competitors

Industry Mentorship
Access to professionals and experts in the field for project guidance and career advice.
Workshops
Training sessions on technical and soft skills, providing hands-on learning experiences.
Product Development Training
Instruction on transforming concepts into prototypes, using advanced tools and methods.
Access to Facilities
Use of labs and maker spaces equipped with 3D printers and quick prototyping tools.
Networking Opportunities
Interactions with peers, industry leaders, and potential employers at various events.
Recognition and Awards
A major prize, university-wide recognition, and invitations to participate in other competitions.
Team Building and Collaboration
Activities and projects designed to develop teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
Feedback and Evaluation
Constructive criticism and evaluations from judges and mentors for continuous improvement.
Exposure to Real-World Problems
Challenges based on validated problems, providing practical problem-solving experience.
Showcasing and Pitch Opportunities
Platforms to exhibit projects to a wider audience, including live demos, pitches and virtual showcases.

Thematic Focus Areas

By choosing a thematic focus, you align your work with the department's innovation and research thrusts, enabling you to tap into its resources and expertise to drive impactful solutions.

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