Clarkson Hosts 14th Annual North Country Regional Business Plan Competition
Clarkson University recently hosted the 14th Annual North Country Regional Business Plan Competition, giving student entrepreneurs a chance to present their ideas, connect with industry judges, and compete for funding.
Organized by Clarkson Ignite, the event took place on March 27 and featured more than 70 students presenting 26 business ideas across five competition tracks. Projects reflected a wide range of interests, including physical products, health and wellness solutions, safety initiatives, and agricultural innovations.
After opening remarks from Ignite Director Ashley Sweeney, student teams pitched their ideas to a panel of judges. The top team from each track advanced to a final “Pitch-Off” round.
The grand prize was awarded to Port Patch, created by first-year Business Administration students Sophie Kobayashi, Delaney Petri, and Briana Dieckmann. Developed in their introductory entrepreneurship courses, the venture aims to support patients and caregivers by reducing discomfort during medical treatments. The team received $2,500 to continue developing their idea.
Additional awards were given to top teams in each track, with first-, second-, and third-place winners receiving $1,000, $750, and $250, respectively.
Special awards, including a new Innovative Prototype prize, were also presented. First- and second-place teams will move on to a virtual round to qualify for the New York Business Plan Competition in April.
“This competition highlights the creativity and drive of Clarkson students,” said Sweeney. “By working directly with investors, students gain real-world experience and bring their ideas to life.”
The event was made possible through the efforts of the Clarkson Ignite team and support from sponsors including Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP, NuMED, North Country Savings Bank, St. Lawrence Health Systems, Citizen Advocates, Sperry Energy, Point Positive Inc., Stewart’s Shops, and the Shipley Center for Innovation.
A full list of winners and more information about Clarkson Ignite can be found at clarkson.edu/ignite.
