J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge

Do you have a big idea?

Pitch it for a chance to win a share of $35,000. This system-wide business plan competition is open to all on-campus LSU students and alumni (graduated within the last year) no matter their majors. On April 18, 2024, three finalists will pitch for a share of startup cash in the final round in this Shark Tank-style event.

For more than a decade, the J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge has provided capital to help LSU students launch and grow startup businesses. Whether you are operating a business or developing an idea but don't have business experience, this competition is for you.


2024 Competition Details

Round I: Application and video pitch submission
Applications are closed. Semi-finalists can expect notification around March 6.

Round II: Semi-finalists will submit a five-page executive business plan and pitch deck 
Due date: March 28
Finalists will be announced April 5.

Round III: Three finalists will present live in-person pitches at the Business Education Complex on April 18. Each finalist will receive a share of the $35,000 prize. The minimum prize is $5,000; the maximum prize is $25,000.

  • Competitors are required to meet all submission deadlines and guidelines.  
  • Applicants must be current LSU-system students (undergraduate or graduate) or alumni who graduated within the last year.
  • Entries must be on-campus students (not LSU Online); alumni must have completed an on-campus degree program. 
  • Individual or team submissions are welcome.
  • Applicants cannot be part of multiple teams. 
  • Competitors must be present during the entire competition and the final presentation.  
  • LSU student(s) must represent at least 51% of company ownership. 
  • Ventures cannot exceed $150K in lifetime revenue and/or $250K in lifetime equity investment.

Applications are closed for 2024.

 

2023 Venture Challenge Results

Students hold giant cardboard checks and smile with excitement as prizes are distributed on stage at the 2023 J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge.

First place: Röllin' Yoggler's Turkey Durkeys
Prize: $20,000
Student Founders: Sam Shapiro and Joe Shapiro
This innovative quick-service food concept features fried turkey fingers and stuffing fries served from a fleet of vibrant food trucks.

Second place: MediRail
Prize: $10,000
Student Founder: Mitchell Mason
MediRail combines a medical backboard with an automated CPR device, reducing the time that first responders spend preparing patients for transport. Read more about Mason's entrepreneurial journey

Third place: PuzzLove
Prize: $5,000
Student Founder: Kamryn Huggins 
PuzzLove supports the autism community through innovative products, including the Shoe Sleeve, a device designed to make shoes more comfortable for children with autism. 

COMPETITION RECAP

 

Contact Us

Fahimeh Abbasi

Director, Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute
2230 Business Education Complex South
fahimabbasi@lsu.edu