NYC Gazette

Competitors Now Hone Their Startup Ideas for Final Pitch Night on May 8

The YU Innovation Lab, Sy Syms School of Business, and the Shevet Glaubach Center for Career Strategy and Professional Development have launched the third annual Innovation Challenge pitch competition, aiming to empower students to bring their business ideas from concept to execution. The Challenge allows students to form teams around their original business idea, which they eventually pitch to a panel of judges, helping them gain the real-world entrepreneurial skills needed to launch a successful company.

The kickoff brainstorming session held on March 20 attracted approximately 40 competitors from Yeshiva University and Central High School for Girls. Students brought forth a variety of innovative ideas, from educational tools to eco-friendly products. Elle Ohayon from Sy Syms shared her idea for a smart pen aimed at teaching students how to read and write using AI, emphasizing personalized learning. Another creative concept came from Jollwin Gonsalves, who designed a wine bottle with an attached glass to reduce plastic waste and make wine consumption more convenient.

A group of freshmen from Central High School for Girls presented their project, a smart cane designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating their surroundings safely. The collaborative atmosphere during the session led to the formation of competitive teams, supported by feedback from peers and Innovation Lab staff.

According to Natasha Srulowitz, Director of the Innovation Lab, the Innovation Challenge serves as a platform for students to validate and articulate their ideas, fostering entrepreneurial curiosity and encouraging participants to further develop their concepts. The competition includes mentorship workshops to refine ideas, with topics ranging from market validation to financial projections.

The culminating event, Innovation Challenge Pitch Night on May 8, will see selected teams pitching their ideas to a panel of judges, competing for a $1,000 prize to support their innovative business idea. Additionally, special recognition will be given to projects addressing the impact of the war in Israel. The overarching goal of the Challenge is to equip students with the skills necessary to transform their ideas into market-ready ventures.