Make-A-Pitch 2024

2024

COMPETITION

Powered by Lyndell Patrick

AWARDS 1st Place: $1,200​ 2nd Place: $800​ 3rd Place: $500​ 1st Place Passion Project: $500​ 1st Place Online: $300​ Audience Choice: $200​ Rising Star: $300​ Judges’ Pick: $300

AGENDA Master of Ceremonies: Kylie Sczepanski, Aaron Moore

4:30 - 5:00 PM

5:15 - 6:45 PM

Participant check-in | Copeland Suite

First Round Pitches | 4th Floor Study Rooms Networking and Hors d’oeuvres | Copeland Suite Mini-Challenge & Games | Copeland Suite Resource Fair | Copeland Suite

7:00 - 7:30 PM

Final Round Pitches | Opperman Auditorium

7:30 - 8:00 PM

Audience Choice Voting | Opperman Auditorium

8:00 - 8:30 PM

Awards | Opperman Auditorium

COLLEGE COINSTUDENT MOBILE BANKING SERVICE Pierce Bonkowski Business Commuications Rajat Pratap Kushnaul Business Administration Description: This will include the easiest operator interface for a college student. They will have access to coin investing and staking as well as retirement funds and info there will be an option for learning so each discovery is made with the best information designed for the every day student.

RENT-A-DAD Brynn Hubbard Entrepreneurship Description: Rent-A-Dad is a digital platform that connects individuals with experienced “dads” for practical life skills, emotional support, and guidance typically provided by a father figure.

From home repairs to career advice, our service offers mentorship and hands-on help for those lacking a fatherly presence in their lives.

VISION Dhruv Kumar Marketing, Professional Sales Description: What if it were like having your own magic lamp, just like Aladdin’s.

AVICALC Hitheshbabu Nimmagadda Information Systems Description: In aircraft, every part has a lifespan, requiring periodic replacement or repair. My goal is to track and display the remaining life of each part, ensuring timely maintenance and safety.

M-VALET Architha B. S Information Systems Description: Imagine this you’re rushing to an important meeting or dinner, navigating through crowded streets, desperately searching for parking.

Frustration builds as time slips away. Now, picture a world where that hassle vanishes— welcome to M-Valet , an app designed to revolutionize your parking experience.

MASTER MENTAL MINDSET Alexa Weber Entrepreneurship Description: At the heart of community is connection.

Through Master Mental Mindset, we aim to create a supportive and thriving community where every individual feels heard, valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential. Together, we can break barriers, spark growth, and build a healthier, more loving community.

RUSTED CROW LIMITED MENU Lucabella Giordano Communications, Entrepreneurship Description: Have you ever wanted to eat out with your family but everyone had different ideas? You can choose what you wish to eat from the monthly menu at The Rusted Crow on the Lake.

CLOUDCAPTURE

BODYPRINT

Joe Heck Media and Cinematic Arts Benjamin Clevenger Broadcast and Cinematic Arts, Journalism Emily Meyers Integrated Public Relations Kate Jones Broadcast and Cinematic Arts, Professional Sales, Political Science

Trevor Weyers Media and Cinematic Arts, Multimedia Design Morgan Hughley Integrative Public Relations, Communications

Description: Have you ever wondered what your house looks like from the sky? How about a wedding? Or even a football game? Well look no further! Here at CloudCapture, we will cater to any of your aerial photography needs. The sky is the limit!

MUSSELMINERALS Masaki Hara Biology, Earth and Ecosystem Science Description: Zebra mussels have invaded the Great Lakes, damaging ecosystems, the economy, and human health, with their sharp shells causing numerous injuries. My business aims to turn these problematic shells into valuable organic products, helping protect Michigan’s beaches.

DOUBLEDUB Eve Hartmann Information Systems Data Analytics, General Management Description: Taking control of your health may be the breakthrough to a whole new life. Personal trainers and coaches know this, but are stuck trying to find clients that align with their specialties and vice versa. That is why DoubleDub is the ideal app for client relations and management! It’s time to take your life to the next level!

Elijah Lewis Media and Cinematic Arts, Communications Justin Fowler Media and Cinematic Arts Description: BodyPrint is an app with an AI partner that creates personalized workout and nutrition plans to help you reach your fitness goals.

Whether at home or in the gym, it provides tailored exercises and nutrition advice to support your journey to a healthier, stronger you.

ARTEM Praise Oyimi Information Tech, Business Management Description: Artem is a platform that connects African artists with global buyers, promoting their work through a blend of social engagement and marketplace services. By offering management support, handling logistics, and reinvesting in communities, Artem uplifts African art and culture.

REWASTONIC.AI Vrajkumar Patel Master of Science in Information Systems Description: Only 17.4% of the total e-waste is recycled, with the rest ending up in landfills or the environment. That is not good because it contains components like Lead and Mercury that can cause many diseases, such as Kidney damage, Skin allergies, DNA damage, asthma, and damage to the nervous system.

SUNNY SITTERS

VENTUREUP

Halle LaMay Entrepreneurship, Biology

Ethan Strand Entrepreneurship, Accounting Mitchell Metiva Entrepreneurship Steffan Mccaughtry Entrepreneurship

Description: Do you feel guilty every time you have to leave your pet behind at the kennel when you leave for vacation only to come back and hear that they were so stressed that they didn’t eat?

With Sunny Sitters, your pet can be safe and comfortable in the environment you created for it with the supervision of a sitter you can trust.

BLAZING DOUGH Brendan Murray Entrepreneurship, Real Estate Jack Bradford Marketing, Logistics Description: Introducing Blazing Dough, a free-standing pizza oven that brings hot, wood-fired pizza directly to you. Perfect for events or on-the-go, we serve fresh, customizable pies in minutes, ensuring every slice is crispy and delicious.

Enjoy pizza at its best, wherever you are!

DIVEBUDI Elle Jones Commercial Music Description: Ever wanted to go scuba diving safely but had no one to dive with? Well now you can!

Introducing the new App for scuba divers all around the world, DiveBudi! A new app that helps divers around the world find their new diving buddy!

Description: VentureUp is a contracting platform that connects businesses with skilled professionals, offering flexible, efficient task delegation without the need for full-time employment. Contractors can build credibility through a review system, fostering trust and long-term relationships.

GEARS-TO-GO Ryan Bierbusse Entrepreneurship Description: Gears-to-Go offers mobile vehicle maintenance, saving you time by performing routine upkeep at your home or work. Our professionals take care of your car, so you don’t have to worry about maintenance or wear.

FRESH START NUTRITION EDUCATION Ryan Leonard Entrepreneurship Description: Fresh Start is an initiative tackling obesity by teaching elementary students healthy habits through gamified nutrition education. As students progress, the curriculum evolves to provide deeper lessons, empowering them to lead healthier lives.

THE TAXMAN

HSH TRAVELS

Angad Wasu Finance

Carolina Hernandez Ruiz Finance, Neuroscience

Description: Introducing The Taxman, an AI model designed to help individuals and businesses make smart financial decisions to save on corporate, state, federal, and income taxes—without the need for a tax attorney or accountant. Say goodbye to tax stress and overpaying.

Description: If you could travel anywhere, would you know the must-see landmarks, best restaurants, or where to stay within your budget? HSH Travels provides a personalized guide with all the answers, ensuring your trip is unique and hassle-free.

CAMPUSLINK

GACHAFY

Kierra Ryan Marketing Marc De Jesus Computer Science

Dalan Haines Communications

Description: Not only is college a stressful time in students lives, it is also financially demanding. Roughly 45% of college students are unemployed, and many of them don’t have the proper schedule for them to work. With the creation of the app, CampusLink, students will be able to connect to community and sell their services to those in need.

STYLE MIRROR Bailey Anderson Sports Management, Entrepreneurship Description: Step into the future of fashion with The Style Mirror—your personal, at-home styling assistant. Discover the perfect outfit with AI-driven recommendations, try on clothes virtually, and manage your wardrobe effortlessly. Say goodbye to online shopping guesswork and hello to a seamless, personalized experience. Ready to revolutionize your style? The Style Mirror is here to transform the way you shop and dress!

Description: Stuck playing games on your phone instead of doing your chores? Opening the same social media site over and over as you struggle to get through the work day? Harness the power of addictive mobile games to be productive! A tool to help you break down tasks and get satisfying rewards.

ALL SEASON CAR PROTECTION Karthik Mangolla Master of Science in Information Systems Shilpa Baddam Master of Science in Information Systems Description: All Season Car Protection is a smart, inflatable cover that shields vehicles from harsh weather year-round. Controlled via a mobile app, it provides real-time weather alerts and uses energy from the car’s movement to power its eco-friendly design.

REANIMATE

ECO-NUT OUTFITTERS

Carley Dreyer Animation

Kyle Alexander Recreation, Outdoor & Environmental Ed. Entrepreneurship

Description: Have you ever had an old show you wanted to watch? A movie from your childhood that you want to see again? Have you tried to find that media only to realize that it’s not on any of the streaming services you have? Well, ReAnimate has got you covered! We have all of the lost shows and movies for you to watch!

TECHTOPIA Alex Galler Entrepreneurship, Fashion Description: Imagine clothes that can self heal, change color, form pockets and much, much more. TechTopia is here to help realize clothing solutions like never seen before. Put on a TechTopia piece once and achieve greater peace than ever before.

CANNA CUISINE Abigail Potasnik Entrepreneurship, Leadership Advancement Description: Celebrate responsibly with Canna Cuisine, the premier provider of cannabis-infused fine dining experiences. Whether for a milestone birthday, bachelor party, or intimate dinner for two, we offer tailored menus crafted with precision and education, creating a safe and luxurious alternative to alcohol-based events.

Elevate your celebrations with unforgettable culinary moments designed to suit every guests’ preferences.

Description: Eco-Nut Outfitters fights invasive species, like zebra and quagga mussels, which cost the Great Lakes $500 million annually and threaten Michigan’s $3 billion fishing industry.

A portion of profits supports this cause, while guided experiences, local food, and educational content empower you to make a difference.

RECYCLING FALL LEAF Karthik Mangolla Master of Science in Information Systems Shilpa Baddam Master of Science in Information Systems Description: Project Fall Leaf repurposes fallen leaves to create eco-friendly tissue paper and carton boxes, offering biodegradable alternatives to traditional materials. By reducing waste and promoting a circular economy, we provide sustainable products for businesses and consumers.

SAE BAJA VEHICLE Gavin Kelly Mechanical Engineering Tyler Cook Interior Design David Schlismann Business Administration Description: We provide the ability for the U.S. military to drop a support critical, solo operated vehicle, from the air into any hard to reach location in the world. This will make previously assumed impossible missions now plausible and realistic - with a rugged, high performance off-road vehicle capable of traversing any terrain.

MAKE-A-PITCH

PASSION PROJECT

TEAMS

New!

MAKE-A-PITCH CATEGORY

PASSION PROJECT Introducing our new addition to Make-A-Pitch: Passion Project.

This new category is an opportunity for students to propose a collaborative idea that will make a positive impact in our community. Every student across campus can present a solution to a problem that they care about.

How will Passion Projects be evaluated?

Size and scale of impact Creative problem solving Inter-disciplinary solutions Engaging delivery A special thank-you goes out to our friends and partners across campus for your collaboration & insights in building the Passion Project.

Check out the exciting teams showcasing their passion!

STITCHING TOGETHER EXCELLENCE

STICKERWORTHY INDUSTRIES

Regan Kopesky Biochemistry & Biology

Jade Walleman Business Administration Description:

Description: I propose making a positive community impact by fostering connection through conversation and crafts. By “stitching” embroidery with dexterity, I aim to help future caretakers enhance their skills—ultimately allowing them to better serve you and your families.

SUPPORTSPHERE Akshaya Baitinti Computer Science Description: My idea seeks to make mental health resources more accessible for international students at CMU by offering culturally sensitive events, bilingual counseling, and peer mentorship.

This initiative will reduce stigma, break down barriers, and create a more inclusive, supportive campus to promote student wellbeing and academic success.

SENIORITY Delaney Meagher Entrepreneurship, Marketing Description: We provide motivation and purpose to our seniors lives with boxes of goodies even when you’re far away from your loved ones. Seniority is a monthly subscription box filled with new products and enrichment activities. It can spark new ideas and hobbies, even old ones!

We are reimagining accessibility and advancing disability advocacy with inclusive solutions for handicapable people. Our products create environments that empower individuals, foster community, and reduce discrimination.

HandyMap, our innovative indoor mapping tool, offers real-time, efficient routes around barriers, ensuring seamless navigation from indoor to outdoor spaces. With HandyMap, navigating complex locations like CMU’s campus is easier and more accessible for everyone.

HUMAN NATURE Cheyanne Barteck Fine Art Description: I’m creating a photo book of self-portraits in abandoned places within my rural community, showcasing the beauty in neglected areas. The project raises awareness of mental health, financial insecurity, and rural challenges, with proceeds supporting Clare County’s improvement. I also plan to volunteer in schools, educating youth about resources and the power of education for their future.

COMMUNITY PANTRY INITIATIVE Kyle Sheppard Sports Management, Entrepreneurship Description: The Community Pantry Initiative provides free food to families in need through small pantries in schools, libraries, and churches.

Stocked by donations from local businesses and community members, the pantries allow anyone to take or leave food. The project aims to fight hunger, reduce food waste, and strengthen the Mount Pleasant community.

THE FREE SPACE

I-SURE

China Hill Public and Nonprofit Administration, Spanish, Business Administration Description:

Shamita Devanand Actuarial Science Description:

Third spaces offer a break from daily responsibilities, and The Free Space aims to be Detroit’s hub for creativity and resilience.

Providing resources like free Wi-Fi, healthy meals, and books, it supports those in the inner city to reach their potential and make it to the next day.

I-SURE is an initiative aimed at improving insurance literacy among international students. Through workshops, online resources, and peer support, we help students navigate health, auto, renter’s, and travel insurance, ensuring they make informed, cost-saving decisions with access to affordable, tailored information.

ALLEVIATING PERIOD POVERTY Judith Saungweme Finance Description: My idea is to provide sanitary pads to both Primary and Secondary Schools in the most remote rural areas in Zimbabwe. Most young girls in the rural areas do not have access to basic menstrual hygiene products resulting in them facing challenges in their menstrual health. This often results in girls using unsafe alternatives like rags and newspapers, which can lead to health risks and missed school days.

ROOTS & WINGS Naina Rajan Master of Business Administration Description: We present a supportive community for immigrant women navigating life in the U.S. Many women move to the country for their families but face cultural, language, and professional barriers that leave them feeling isolated. Our platform empowers them through practical resources, social media content, and local support to help them adjust, build confidence, and thrive in their new environment. Join us in creating a space where women from all backgrounds can connect, learn, and grow together.

RESOURCE FAIR Make sure to check out our Resource Fair in the Copeland Suite!

Different organizations and programs are lined up to let you know how they can help you level up your venture.

Stop by and say hi to: Presentation Skills Center IDEA Den: prototyping demo with 3D printers Design Bureau External Resources: Mid-Michigan Development Center, Small Business Development Center University Innovation Fellows Program

MINI CHALLENGES The Wakeling-Gendron Entrepreneurial Scholars will host a series of activities throughout the evening for students to participate in while waiting between rounds. This includes a fun mini-challenge, games, and a station to help you build a business card.

CMURC CMURC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides co-working spaces and accelerator programs to support entrepreneurs in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Partnering with organizations like Central Michigan University and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, it helps grow businesses and create jobs. Funded in part by a U.S. Small Business Administration grant, CMURC is committed to inclusive entrepreneurship and closing the opportunity gap.

Thank you Make-A-Pitch sponsor Lyndell Patrick for your generosity and passion for entrepreneurship.

Thank you to all of those who helped make this competition happen! We appreciate your dedication to the students and the program.

Dean Moberg IBIE Advisory Board Judges & Moderators Park Library Team Mentors & Advisors Broadcasting Team IBIE & NVC donors and supporters Wakeling-Gendron Entrepreneurial Scholars

JUDGES

Julia Becker

Bob Larson

Marv Pichla

Bonnie Fanhoome

Glenn Cross

Bing Bing Li

Jeff Punches

Steven Leeper

Tony Fox

Kati Mora

Matthew Skornicka

Erin Patrice

Steven Hahn

Christy Moses

Amanda Tillotson

Amberlyn Hales Kristie Nystedt

Stephen Wakeling

Dom Holmes

Dan Ward

Dan Odykirk

SAVE THE DATE!

NVC PRELIMS

MARCH 26 | GRAWN ATRIUM

2025 NVC FINALS

APRIL 11 | BIO & EHS The New Venture Challenge is CMU’s premier entrepreneurial competition where YOU can transform your big into successful venture. Check out our website and discover how to take part in NVC and win cash prizes, bragging rights, and more!

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