Michigan Tech College of Business Newsblog

2018 Bob Mark Business Model Competition

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The Bob Mark Business Model Competition provides a venue for students of all majors to pitch their entrepreneurial ideas before an audience and a panel of judges. Prior to the competition, students receive coaching from business professionals to hone their ideas and improve their pitches.

The 2018 Bob Mark Business Model Competition took place Wednesday, Dec. 5. More than 20 participants making up 15 teams pitched business plans for ideas ranging from hypothermia-preventing life jackets to a web-based stress management program.

Congratulations to this year’s winners:

  • First Place and MTEC SmartZone Game-Changer Award—Gary Tropp (Computer Network and System Administration) for VARS (Virtual Advising Registering and Scheduling)
  • Second and Third Place—Tie between Mayank Bagaria (Mechanical Engineering) for Vakya and Karuna Rana (Environmental and Energy Policy) for Reality Check
  • Audience Favorite—Nate LaJoie (Finance) and Michael Betz (Management) for Backpack Keg
  • Honorable Mention—Deanna Springgay (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) for Little Trainer
  • Honorable Mention—Russ Crofton (Mechanical Engineering Technology) for Modern Steel Bicycles
Lecturer Jonathan Leinonen reminisces on Bob’s passion and teachings.
Judges asked questions and shared feedback following pitches.
Business alumnus Cedric Kennedy served as the night’s emcee.
Deanna Springgay’s business concept, Little Trainer, provides a mobile and affordable way to exercise safely.
The RankUP concept monetizes the gaming trend.
Gary Tropp took what he saw as a problem with scheduling classes and programmed a solution.
Using drone technology, this business model can make routine traffic stops safer.
Michigan Tech Sound and Lighting student crews set the vibe for an inspiring night.