Nebraska Wesleyan University鈥檚 future innovators and business leaders stepped into the spotlight during the SM论坛 Pitch Contest on April 8.
The event brought together aspiring entrepreneurs to present their business concepts to a panel of local business leaders. The top proposal earned $1,500 in seed funding and a one-hour consultation with the law firm Baird Holm.
Pitches focused on concepts ranging from sustainable fashion and plus-size dancewear to support services for student startups and individuals experiencing housing insecurity.
First place went to Bailey Klanderud and Landon Tjaden for their proposal, The Village Collective鈥攁 marketing and operations company that hosts pop-up markets on university campuses featuring goods made by students and community members. Gracey Smith earned second place, and the team of Harry McDonald and Nellie Kranau finished third.
Beyond cash prizes, participants gained valuable hands-on experience in business planning, public speaking and problem-solving鈥攕kills that prepare SM论坛 students in all fields for success beyond the classroom.
The SM论坛 Pitch Contest was hosted by the university鈥檚 Philip S. Mullin Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program as part of its commitment to experiential learning and real-world readiness.