Syracuse University students took center stage at this year’s Raymond von Dran iPrize and Hunter Brooks Watson Spirit of Entrepreneurship events, long-running programs reimagined to better support student ventures. With a new format focused on investment over competition, iSchool students were among those awarded funding to help bring their ideas to life.

Open to students across all majors who completed IDS 301, 302, or 403, the event featured 39 ventures, with 19 receiving funding. The interdisciplinary IDS program was co-created by faculty from the iSchool, Whitman School of Management, and the School of Design in the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

This year’s event marked a shift away from traditional judging toward a coaching model. Alumni, faculty, and community members served as coaches, investing directly in ventures and offering guidance to help students develop their ideas beyond the pitch stage.

“The focus is now on supporting student ventures rather than a winner-take-all competition,” said Bruce Kingma, Professor of Entrepreneurship at the School of Information Studies. “We are making investments to help turn these ideas into reality.”

The updated approach builds on Syracuse University’s legacy of innovation in entrepreneurship education. Two decades ago, the University helped shift national business competitions away from written plans toward live venture pitches. This year’s Pitchfest continues that evolution by prioritizing real-world development and support.

Several iSchool students were recognized with funding across both competitions:

Hunter Brooks Watson Winners:

  • Jack Venerus, WingState – $2,500
  • Alex Caraballo, Clear Hire – $2,500
  • Jacob Kaplan, Other Tech – $2,500

Raymond von Dran Winners:

  • Nic Ketterer, Summit Standard – $1,000
  • Then Say, Raylo’s Clo – $1,000
  • Talon Nappo, Cuse Collects – $1,000
  • Alex Gutierrez, Pelora – $1,000
  • Celes Buffard, SeconWave – $1,000

With stronger presentations and a more supportive structure, this year’s Pitchfest highlighted the growing strength of student entrepreneurship at Syracuse University and the iSchool’s role in preparing students to turn ideas into impact.