Finalists to present at Warhawk Business Plan Competition

April 04, 2016

Presenter Luke Olson with the Illumicase display. Six student entrepreneurs competed for three top prizes totaling $8,000 at the 2015 Warhawk Business Plan Competition hosted by CEO (Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization) at the University Center on Wednesday, April 8, 2015. The students presented their plans to a panel of business leaders and were judged on the market opportunity of their idea, the problem it solves, the solution, competitive analysis and competitive advantage. Students' presentation skills also factored into their score. (UW-Whitewater photo/Craig Schreiner)

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UW-Whitewater has a strong reputation for educating and encouraging young entrepreneurs. Come witness the birth of new startups firsthand at the 2016 Warhawk Business Plan Competition.

The event, hosted by the UW-Whitewater CEO (Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization) chapter, is 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 6, in the James R. Connor University Center Old Main Ballroom. Light refreshments will be served.

This event is similar to ABC's "Shark Tank." Students present their products or services in front of a panel of five judges, which includes angel investors and entrepreneurs.    

It's an experience that can open many doors for young entrepreneurs and provides students with real-life entrepreneurship experience.  

"They learn skills in really creating a full business model. All of those elements include defining your customer segments, value proposition, cost structure, competitors, revenue streams, partners, sales channels, marketing, legal aspects, and financials," said David Gee, CEO adviser and lecturer in management.  

Students chosen as finalists in the event have created startups or startup ideas with a high potential of commercial success.  

"It's fun and it's high energy. You get to rub elbows with elite student entrepreneurs, investors and others interested in entrepreneurship as well as entrepreneurship faculty," said Gee.  

The Warhawk Business Plan competition is the second of two campuswide events hosted by CEO annually. The elevator pitch competition, which is a 90-second pitch competition, occurs in the fall. The business plan competition culminates in the spring, after student entreprenuers have submitted essays, videos, product or service overview and business plans. Six students are chosen as finalists.