Eagle Works
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Eagle Works is Tennessee Tech’s premier innovation program, where students don’t just pitch ideas. they build real ventures.
Hosted by the Center for Rural Innovation at Tennessee Tech, Eagle Works is the university's premier venture development program. Using a Shark Tank-style competition, interdisciplinary teams transform ideas into viable businesses and present ideas before a panel of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners.
Each year, students move from concept to execution through a semester-long program that emphasizes customer discovery, market validation, pitching, and venture development. The result: student-led ventures that are already gaining traction, forming partnerships, and preparing for real-world implementation.
Fall 2026 Calendar
- Oct. 27 : Eagle Works Kickoff | 11 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 27 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Tech Pride Room (RUC 101)Got an idea? Eagle Works is back! Join us for free food, swag, and a first look at this year’s competition. We’ll also share details about our Nov. 4 elevator pitch workshop and Nov. 10 Idea Challenge, where students can put their ideas to the test with a 90-second pitch and compete for $1,000 in prize money.
- Nov. 4 : Elevator Pitch Workshop | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 4 | 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Tech Pride Room (RUC 101)Not sure how to pitch your idea? Learn from someone who's been in your shoes!
Join us for a hands-on elevator pitch workshop led by Téa Philips, founder of MetaFlex Glove and former Eagle Works contestant. Téa first competed in Eagle Works in 2018 with an idea that would eventually grow into a nationally recognized rehabilitation technology company, raising more than $800,000 in investment and helping thousands of people regain hand function.
Now she's coming back to share what she's learned and help the next generation of Eagle Works contestants turn their ideas into compelling pitches.
- Nov. 10 : Idea Challenge | 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 10 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Multipurpose Room (RUC 282)
90 seconds. Your idea. $1,000 up for grabs.The Eagle Works Idea Challenge gives Tennessee Tech students a chance to pitch an idea and compete for $1,000 in prize money. You don't need a business plan or a finished product. Just bring your idea and be ready to share it.
Join our mailing list or follow us on Instagram (@tntecheagleworks) for all the news!
AI Usage
Students are encouraged to use AI tools responsibly, but must explicitly cite all usage and its specific purpose within their projects. For detailed guidance and templates on proper attribution, please refer to the resources available on the Tennessee Tech CITL website.
Miss a workshop?
Find presentations and video here!
Faculty! Interested in getting your students involved?
SCHEDULE A SHORT (5-10 MINUTE) EAGLE WORKS PRESENTATION FOR YOUR CLASSES!
The Eagle Works program is made possible through the generous support of our donors: the TN Rural Development Fund and the Clouse-Elrod Foundation. If you are interested in contributing to the advancement of entrepreneurship at Tech, please contact Andrea Kruszka at akruszka@tntech.edu.
Join us as we celebrate innovation, foster entrepreneurial spirit, and embrace the endless possibilities of the future. Save the date and be part of this inspiring journey!
Student Contestant Information
For the problem-solvers, makers, innovators, leaders, thinkers, world-changers.
The 2026 Eagle Works student innovation & entrepreneurship competition will be held Saturday, April 18. Check out the links below for all the information you need to compete!
- Get registered for the main competition
- Register your team if you're competing in one
- See the informational presentation
- Check out information on How to Compete
- Review the Student IP information
- Hear from past winners
- Join our mailing list
- Watch videos of past workshops
- Find answers to the most frequently asked questions!
Eagle Works Testimonials
Tennessee Rural Development Fund
Eagle Works proudly partners with the Tennessee Rural Development Fund (TNRDF), our valued sponsor since 2022. Thanks to TNRDF's support, we've provided over $20,000 in awards to student entrepreneurs annually. Beyond awards, TNRDF's affordable capital access and rural economic development efforts are helping shape a brighter future for Tennessee's rural communities., which closely aligns with the vision of Rural Reimagined. Together, we're fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and prosperity in our region. For more information, visit: https://tnrdf.com/
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