Call for participants for PDW 'The NEUB "Voice": A Developmental Pitch Competition for Early-Career Scholars'
What's the plan?
This PDW starts already before AoM, by identifying promising research projects and them compete in a "shark tank".
We want to invite researchers to pitch ideas and connect them with mentors/coaches in an iterative process where we all can watch them grow, with the 'finals' a celebration. Think the USA show "The Voice", only with research projects with scholarly and practical impact for growing entrepreneurs.
How does it work?
- Junior scholars can submit project proposals to this PDW. Potentials mentors (more senior scholars) can sign up for mentoring. Feel free to sign up for more information (see link to google-form below).
- At AoM 2026, teams will pitch their idea, potential mentors will scan, "audience" members can comment too. Unlike traditional "Shark Tank" formats, the goal here is not to eliminate, but to "turn the chairs" by demonstrating project viability.
- The mentor works with the junior scholars together to refine the research's "pitch" for both academic rigor and real-world relevance. Every month or so, teams post an update that includes what you've learned and how you have pivoted. Teams will also provide developmental feedback to the other teams. Lather, rinse, repeat.
We call for interested young scholars, a steering committee to make this rock, and we need mentors!
Sign up here (for participation and/or more information):
Who can sign up?
"Singers" (young scholars): If you have an idea for such a project, let us know. We definitely seek younger scholars and scholars new to the domain. Hoping for multi-institution teams, especially multi-national. (If you don't have a team, we might be able to play matchmaker.) We need 4 teams but can do more as the process change your mind :) No existing "stars" but if you are, join the mentors or steering committee.
"Coaches": If you'd like to be a mentor, let me know. We promise to sing your praises.
Steering Committee: If you would like to be involved in planning/organizing/rescuing this effort, let us know. You get to help guide the process, find mentors, and keep everything moving forward honorably and brilliantly.
Interested?
Sign up here (for participation and/or more information):
Your organizers,
Gabi Kaffka and Norris Krueger
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Gabi Anja Kaffka
Assistant Professor
Tilburg University
Amsterdam
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