Electronics engineers, students and academics are being invited to submit designs for an innovative product that uses electronic components and has a positive impact on the environment in the Live Edge competition.

The winning entrant will receive a cash prize of $50,000 as well as the support to move the design towards production. The support package, estimated to be worth an additional $50,000, will include the services of an electronic design consultancy that will develop the design to prototype stage, assistance with legal matters and IP registration, marketing and publicity, as well as Premier Farnell's help in securing investment funding.

Premier Farnell group will market the end product through their Web page, catalogue and direct marketing. Up to five additional entrants could each receive a cash prize of $5,000. The panel of judges will feature a mix of innovators, engineers, entrepreneurs, academics, industry leaders and environmental campaigners.

Reflecting the environmentally friendly theme of the competition, Live Edge will be largely web-based to avoid unnecessary international travel and transportation. For example, the judges will confer online and it will be possible to view the award ceremony on the competition Web site.

"Our planet is facing environmental threats on an unprecedented scale. By unleashing the creativity that exists within the electronics industry, we can make a difference to these global challenges. Live Edge will give electronics design engineers the opportunity to have a positive impact on the future and see their vision become a reality," said Harriet Green, chief executive officer of Premier Farnell.

The closing date for registration is Oct. 31, 2007 and entries must be submitted by Nov. 30, 2007. The competition is open to anyone 18 or over, and the winner will be announced in January 2008.