Five Olds College students have been named semi-finalists in the United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Ltd. Student Pitch Competition.
As part of their entry into the competition, students were asked to submit a business model canvas and pitch deck presenting an innovative ag idea to move forward into the final pitch competition on April 13, when the winner will be announced.
Olds College students Daniel Stefner, Kenneth Deocampo, Lauren McKamey, Styn Nieuwenhuis and Tristen Norman made the cut as semi-finalists.
Each received a $500 UFA reward, a $1,000 tuition credit and will be matched with an industry expert and mentor to help build out their business models for pitch day!
The pitch competition is a Dragon’s Den style competition where each student is given an opportunity to pitch their business model to a panel of judges. The winning pitch may have the opportunity to receive financial support to commercialize their idea or product with UFA.
“We know that some of the best ideas come from young people and we are excited about this particularly unique project and the promise it holds for Alberta’s agriculture industry, said Rob Giguere, UFA vice-president of livestock services and market strategy.
“We are very excited to partner with UFA once again to offer our students this incredible opportunity to develop their innovative ideas,” Olds College president Stuart Cullum. “Last year’s pitch competition really showcased the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of our students at Olds.”
In 2020, Kadeema Jean, fourth-year student in the bachelor of applied science agribusiness program at Olds College, won the competition with her pitch for DomCan Biodegradables. Since winning the competition, Kadeema has completed her program, is employed with UFA, and working towards further developing her company.