CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWS

Viking Business Pitch Competition

The third annual Viking Business Pitch Competition was held in the Recital Hall on Thursday, April 6. Eight student teams from both in and outside Bertolon School of Business presented their business ideas as finalists in front of a full auditorium on the stage. In this year, due to increased sponsor supports, the center increases the three grand-prizes to $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 level. In addition, all other five finalist teams receive $250 in reward for each team.

1st Place – Henry Doherty, Jack Pender, and Michael Flynn

Henry Doherty is a senior student in business major with entrepreneurship concentration; Jack Pender is a junior business student with marketing concentration; and Michael Flynn is also a junior business student with marketing concentration. They will share the $3,000 grand prize. Jack and Michael were also finalists in last year’s annual competition. In this year, the new three-person team presented a new idea, PoliticalEd, an app of political education geared toward American college students. This software has clearly defined market niche and addresses a deficiency among a group of potential consumers.

2nd Place – RoseBiandie JeanMary

A graduating senior student of biology major and biomedical concentration won the 2nd grand prize of $2,000. Her idea of Rosemetics, natural skincare is not only an idea, but the

Advisory Board News

Advisory board chose to focus on Business Pitch competition and mentorship this year. There was more than 80% participation in supporting these efforts financially or volunteering their time. Many members connected with students as guest speakers in their classes and continue to connect with them through LinkedIn. Thanks to the efforts of all our advisory board members, and especially Mr. Dino DiPalma, we raised $17,500 for financial awards and supporting the Business Pitch competition.