A Look Inside CBUS Events and Recourses
July 28, 2025
This past spring, the MSU Denver Pitch and Poster Competition brought together an inspiring group of student entrepreneurs determined to tell the story of their business ideas and connect with those who could help them take their next big step.
The goal of the competition is simple but powerful: to give students a platform to pitch their business ventures while gaining valuable experience, exposure, and community support. This year, the event was sponsored by SCORE, which not only helped fund the competition but also provided direct mentorship to each of the pitch competitors.
The event began with 14 students submitting video pitches. From that talented pool, five finalists were selected to present live, and their ideas truly reflected the diversity and creativity that defines MSU Denver.
These five finalists came from across the university, not just the College of Business, and represented a wide array of industries and personal journeys. Their ventures included a software solution designed by a student-athlete turned coach, a physics major tackling greenhouse emission in transportation, a striking personal services business ready to scale, a fresh twist on the morning energy drink, and a physical goods company dedicated to serving vulnerable communities.
Finalists included undergraduate students, an MBA student, and graduates of Launch Denver, our community-based entrepreneurship education program. Together, they captivated an audience of faculty, staff, and community members who showed up in full force to support these rising innovators.
The impact of this competition extended far beyond the stage. Judges and attendees offered real-world opportunities, including investment offers and vital connections that could help students grow their ventures long after the event ended.
“If you want to have an opportunity to supercharge your business and put it in the fast lane of companies, this is your chance to be judged by experts in the field, win cash, and get an opportunity to get a mentor by your side. Do your company a favor, sign up for the next pitch contest.”
The Spring 2025 Pitch and Poster Competition was more than a contest. It was a celebration of entrepreneurship, collaboration, and the bold ideas being born right here at MSU Denver.
“Our experience with the MSU Denver Business Pitch Competition was phenomenal. The hands-on support and expert guidance were instrumental in sharpening our business pitch and honing ‘The Happy Bean Coffee Company’s’ message. We gained an invaluable understanding of how to articulate our vision, which has been crucial for our ongoing growth. The competition provided the perfect platform to refine our ideas and truly prepare for the next steps of our entrepreneurial journey.”
Check out The Happy Bean Coffee Co. on Instagram – @happybeancoffee.co
“Participating in the pitch competition was an incredibly rewarding experience. In the weeks leading up to the event, I received valuable support in developing and refining my business idea. Professor Adam Melnick provided insightful feedback and helped me practice my pitch, which greatly increased my confidence and clarity going into the competition.
On the day of the event, I presented my idea to a panel of judges and an audience of peers and professionals. The feedback I received was both constructive and encouraging, offering new perspectives that helped me further shape my concept. I also had the opportunity to connect with other participants and attendees, expanding my professional network in meaningful ways.
I highly encourage any student interested in entrepreneurship to take part in the pitch competition. Whether your business idea is fully developed or still forming, the experience helps you improve public speaking, refine your presentation skills, and gain valuable feedback from experienced professionals. Most importantly, it pushes you to step outside your comfort zone and grow.”
Support comes from MSU Denver’s College of Business, offering flexible programs with real‑world projects and support. Committed to empowering graduates to lead, solve, and inspire.
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