Students from the School of Business and Management Studies ended the term with the perfect pitch.
On December 9, classes of Entrepreneurship and Social Entrepreneurship students had a chance to participate in a ‘Pitch It To Win It’ event in partnership with the Niagara Falls Innovation Hub.
Led by Professor Melanie Sodka, the event marked the culmination of an end-of-term project which challenged them to research and pitch solutions to selected businesses.
After two businesses were selected to work with, Sodka interviewed them and identified which business gaps and opportunities they would like students to research and pitch solutions to. Students then applied course learnings to their recommendations.
Finalists were chosen to make their pitch at the Pitch It To Win It event, and all students from the classes were invited to attend to cheer them on as businesses selected their top choice.
Sodka noted that the competition is held at the end of each term and provides students an opportunity to select a business they are interested in further exploring through an entrepreneurial lens where they are able to evaluate and research key concepts such as reviewing the business model, value proposition, customer segment and relationship strategies, as well as the financials and logistics of the business operation.
“At times, the businesses have offered internships or part-time consulting jobs to the students,” said Sodka. “At the very least, the students get real business consulting experience as well as pitch experience to add to their resumes and professional portfolios.”
Participating students valued the experience.
“This event was more than just a competition; it was an invaluable hands-on learning experience,” said student Benjamin Roy. “Being able to step into the role of consultants, collaborate with local entrepreneurs, and offer innovative ideas was an incredible opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“Moments like these remind me why I’m so passionate about marketing and sales.”
Lou Vescio, Entrepreneurial Advisor from the Niagara Falls Innovation Hub congratulated all the participants in the recent event.
“All of the pitches were outstanding, professional and effective,” said Vescio. “Kudos to Professor Sodka for preparing this talented group of students for this amazing competition and know all of these immensely talented entrepreneurs will all go on achieve great success!”
A social media post by Professor Melanie Sodka conveys excitement about the valuable experience Pitch it to Win it offers NC students.
