Each PennVention judge is provided a sheet containing the following judging guidelines. Judges will evaluate submissions using a holistic judging process.

• The team has clearly articulated the purpose of the invention and outlines any alternative approaches.
• The team has proven that the invention is the best of the alternatives.
• The team has clearly described the invention with appropriate sketches, models, design drawings, or other visuals.
• The team has developed a unique and innovative concept.

• There is a sizable market for this invention, and the team has identified appropriate customer types and market segments.
• The team has demonstrated that the invention’s benefits outweigh the cost of a change in customer behavior.
• The team has identified all prospective competitors and differentiated its products.
• The team has described and addressed the expected challenges in entering the market.

• The team has identified and addressed the risk factors in developing, producing, and/or delivering the inventions.
• The team has considered the basic economics of the invention (price vs. cost.)
• The team has validated the functionality of the invention.

• The team has demonstrated how a patent could effectively exclude competitors from meeting the articulated need.
• The team has identified regulatory and legal hurdles.

• The team has demonstrated the potential value of the invention to society (socially, environmentally, and/or economically).

• The team has the vision and commitment to build a successful prototype.
• The team has consulted appropriate advisors to assist in the process.