Ten UNI students competed in the 2019 UNI Entrepreneurs Elevator Pitch Competition. The competition was held in the Business & Community Services Building on Tuesday, October 15th. The students were split into two different categories, founders or idea generators, for competition depending on what stage their business was in. Founders already have an existing start up business and currently have revenue from either selling a product or providing a service. Idea Generators are in the very early stages of their business and have yet to earn revenue.

Maddie Palmersheim, owner of Karmic Co., took home first place in the founders category. She was rewarded $250, and she will also have the opportunity to pitch at the National Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization (CEO) Conference Elevator Pitch Competition with an all-expense paid trip to the conference in Tampa, Florida. The Karmic Co. sells Chakra bracelets which are made with different crystal beads intended to find good energy mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Each crystal has a unique purpose that brings you the focus to any area of desiring growth in your life. You can visit Maddie’s shop and blog at thekarmicco.com.

Ryan Falk, founder of Vintage Drips, won second place in the founders track was awarded $150. Vintage Drips sells vintage clothing and memorabilia both online and at pop-up shops. He has found much success selling on the popular social media platform, Instagram.

Cole Smith got third place and took home $100. Cole owns and operates CJS Enterprises LLC. He provides professional coaching with a personalized approach and helps others achieve success. He also hosts a podcast and writes a blog at colejsmith.com.

In the idea generator competition, the team of Cole Wetzel and Jacob Smith took first with their business, PastimeU, earning them $250 as their award. PastimeU aims to make university students aware of unique events around campus and the community through a mobile app. It will also help local business connect with students though special sponsored events and deals.

The Conquer Movement and its founder, AJ Reding, was awarded $150 after getting second place in the idea generator category. The Conquer Movement is a platform that empowers individuals to step outside the normal rhythm of life to achieve goals and dreams with other like-minded individuals.

Corey Behrens took 3rd place in the idea generator competition with his business, Doom Coffee, which earned him $100 as his award. Corey plans on whole selling third-wave coffee, which is a movement to produce the highest quality coffee.