Metropolitan State University of Denver is now accepting submissions for the President’s Flywheel Challenge, a unique program aimed at removing “flywheel friction” and enhancing financial stability through faculty-, staff- and student-driven solutions.
The flywheel is a metaphor illustrating the idea that each small success for MSU Denver builds momentum. With successes, the flywheel spins faster and surpasses the initial effort. Applying the right effort in the right areas and reducing friction that slows the process lead to compounding wins for the University over time.
The Flywheel Challenge empowers the University community to propose ideas that save time, cut costs and improve processes across departments.
“If you pitch (ideas) up, and they become adopted, you get money,” President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., said during her Aug. 29 Welcome Back event for faculty and staff.
Think a particular process takes too much time? Know a software tool or method that could help streamline operations?
Why participate?
Each successful solution implemented through the Flywheel Challenge earns 10% of the savings, up to $10,000, making it a rewarding opportunity for anyone looking to contribute to the University’s growth and efficiency.
Small changes, big changes, new tools or process overhauls — all ideas are welcome, as long as they address “flywheel friction” by improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Submission process
Each quarter, submissions are reviewed, and eligible solutions will be implemented. Deadlines for quarterly review submissions are:
- Feb. 14
- May 15
- Aug. 14
- Nov. 14, 2025
Submissions must have a sponsor at the following levels:
- For faculty members: department chair or above
- For staff members: director or above
- For students: academic-department chair or staff director or above
Ready to submit your idea?
Visit the President’s Flywheel Challenge website for detailed submission instructions.
