Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Bison Bump

Business Plan Challenge

Submit your plan by August 18

It’s in their DNA! Bison bump heads, romp, jump, roll, and engage in spirited play as they grow — behaviors that build complex social bonds and signal strength. This raw, natural energy is the inspiration behind Bison Bump.

Bison Bump is a challenge that invites creative and innovative start-up ideas, reflecting a commitment to uplifting and empowering Indigenous communities.

2025 Theme

Tapping into the Tradition of Native Innovation

Entrepreneurship and innovation for college students who are members of AISES. Entrants are encouraged to propose breakthrough, disruptive innovations that are culturally grounded and offer sustainable, community-driven solutions with crowdsourcing potential.

Do you have a bold idea or innovative project that uses STEM to improve the world? Join us in showcasing the future of Indigenous STEM powered by community wisdom, curiosity, and courage. Let us help you promote solutions that honor both innovation and tradition.

We’re looking for projects that tackle today’s most pressing issues with a comprehensive, integrated approach rooted in community, innovation, and sustainability.

Your project might include:

  • Robotics
  • Computer Science – coding, apps, algorithms
  • Scientific Research and Education
  • Engineering – design and systems
  • Aerospace innovations
  • Math Modeling and Data Science
  • Traditional Ecological Knowledge
  • Foodways and Agricultural Tech – hydroponics, aquaponics, aquaculture
  • Environment Solutions – power grid, climate action, heat response, water
  • Technology that builds resilience

 

We invite ideas rooted in passion, innovation, and community. Registered AISES college members across the U.S. and Canada are encouraged to apply for this exciting competition. Teams of up to five individuals are accepted.

Prizes & Awards

  • First Place $1500
  • Second Place $1000
  • People's Choice $500
  • Finalists $250

How To Join the Challenge

Step 1

Activate your AISES Membership

Active AISES members across the U.S. and Canada are welcome to compete. Teams of up to five individuals are accepted.

Step 2

Expand on this year's theme with your idea

Examples: food security, preservation, storage, environments, marketing, production methods, transfer of food knowledge, and more.

Step 3

Submit Your Business Plan

Whether you’re developing a product, service, or concept, this is your chance to bring your vision to life. You will be assessed on the following:

  • Innovation
  • Cultural relevance
  • Community impact
  • Feasibility

For Finalists

Connect with your Mentor

Each of the five finalist teams will be assigned a mentor by AISES to provide guidance and support in preparing their live presentation at the 2025 AISES National Conference.

For Finalists

Submit a 60-90 second pitch video

Videos will be promoted on AISES platforms so our audiences can support their favorite idea.

For Finalists

Present your concept "live" in Minneapolis, Minnesota!

The winners will be announced at the Closing Ceremony at the 2025 AISES National Conference.

Note: Travel and conference expenses are the responsibility of applicants.

What Participants Can Expect

Important Deadlines

Deadline to apply is August 18, 2025.

Become a Bison Bump Partner

Discover an opportunity to advance entrepreneurship, particularly within Indigenous communities. As a valued partner, you’ll gain international visibility and recognition through various channels, including:

  • The 2025 Bison Bump Business Plan Challenge Program
  • Featured exposure on the AISES website
  • Showcase in the Winds of Change National Conference Wrap-Up digital magazine

Partnering with Bison Bump means contributing to a transformative platform that nurtures culturally grounded innovation, sustainability, and empowerment for talented Indigenous entrepreneurs.

If interested, contact us below.

Learn more about the AISES National Conference!

Contact Us