Five Wright State University students will pitch original business ideas to a panel of experts — and compete for $5,000 in startup funding — during Wright Venture, the annual entrepreneurial competition hosted by the Raj Soin College of Business.
The event takes place on Wednesday, April 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Rike Hall Lobby.
Modeled after the reality television program “Shark Tank,” Wright Venture places students in front of a panel of experienced executives, called the Wolves, who evaluate each idea and provide feedback. This year’s judges are Lesley Ott, chief operating officer at James Investment Research; Jonah Sandler, founder and president of Escena Investments and Beth Savage, former owner and CEO of PQ Systems.
The five finalists were selected from 27 applications — more than double last year’s pool. Their projects are:
Pulse, an AI-driven marketing agency that produces social media and lead-generation content for small businesses. Presented by marketing analytics and insights grad student Anupom Saikot.
Source: Wright State Newsroom – Wright State students will compete for startup funds in annual Wright Venture entrepreneurial competition « Wright State University
AccioFirst, an AI career platform that helps job seekers identify legitimate employment opportunities. Presented by computer science alum Gokulnaath Govindaraj.
Blockhelp, a neighborhood-based digital marketplace that connects trusted teens with homeowners for services such as tutoring, yard work and childcare. Presented by finance major Lilly Willmann.
FieldHive, a civic communication platform through which municipalities and public agencies can share emergency alerts, public safety updates and information. Presented by business major Jason Atkins.
Local Vibes, a QR-based local guide that helps students find trending spots, real-time deals and friends near campus. Presented by marketing analytics and insights grad student Aeshani Kumar.
