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
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.
Contact Us
Fahimeh Abbasi
Director, Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute
2230 Business Education Complex South
fahimabbasi@lsu.edu