Keiser University’s Pitch Contest Encourages Innovation

Judges and audience members recently gained insights relating to various innovative concepts as part of Keiser University’s system-wide Seahawk Tank Pitch Contest.

Held at Keiser University’s West Palm Beach Flagship Campus under the direction of Professor George Stamas, finalists presented well-researched ideas and business plans to a panel of industry judges in hopes of winning cash prizes totaling $10,500.

This year’s affair presented business ventures relating to international esports, holistic health services, customized clothing and crafts, inspirational activewear, and more. The winners were:

First Place

 Joshua Katz, Flagship – $3500

Business Idea: Association of International Esports. Provide Esports labs for academic and athletic use.

Second Place

 Justin Kelly, Jr., Flagship – $2500

Business Idea: 5STAR Arrangements. Active wear for everyone with a mission to inspire self-worth.

Third Place 

Janior Romero and Team Members Norman Romero, Carlos Bendana and Lenny Gomez – San Marcos – $1500

Business Idea: La Villa. Housing solutions for Keiser students in San Marcos and Florida.

The remaining Six Contenders $500 each:

The annual challenge is offered to students who attend any of Keiser University’s 21 Florida campuses. Keiser University thanks Seahawk Tank Pitch Contest judges Philip Crowley, Dr. Katherine Emerson, Bradley Gies, and Juan Pagan for their insights and deliberations.

Bachelor of Arts degree in Business students at Keiser University gain a basic understanding of business skills needed for entry level business professionals, as the program introduces them to the functional areas of business, the business environment including ethical business practices, technical and communication skills needed in today’s business environment.

Keiser University is a private, independent, non-profit university serving nearly 20,000 students at 21 Florida campuses, online, and two international sites. Founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, Keiser University currently offers more than 100 degrees from associates to the doctoral level. Keiser University is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and was ranked No. 21 in the U.S. in Social Mobility by U.S. News and World Report in 2023-24.

Professors George Stamas and Jonathan Massey (far right and left) with student participants (left to right) Benny Quintana, Robert Lane, Justin Kelly, Joshua Katz, Monique Farmer and Gabriela Sandifer

KU SEAHAWK TANK pitch contestant Justin Kelly, Jr. shares his background.

George Stamas, Dr. Katherine Emerson, Juan Pagan, Philip Crowley and Dr. Gary Vonk

 

Seahawk Nation Video Highlights

At Keiser University students always come first, our reputation was built in Florida. Keiser is a not-for-profit university with over 40 years of history, thousands of graduates on campus and online. Now, with a 100-acre residential campus, this can be your right fit. We are Keiser University!

Keiser University Students First

Keiser University is pleased to join forces with guest lecturer, and New York Times Bestselling author Don Yaeger, to offer The Greatness Leadership Initiative: Transforming the World in the Face of Change. This open, online course is available free of charge to all in the Keiser University community. Stay tuned for more information!

The Greatness Leadership Initiative: Transforming the World in the Face of Change