Kutztown University’s College of Business has announced the winners of the 2025 Business Idea Competition, showcasing the innovative spirit of its students. The event took place on November 19, 2025, in the de Francesco Building, where six finalists presented their entrepreneurial ideas to a panel of judges. Participants competed for cash prizes, with first place receiving $1,000, second place $750, and third place $500. Importantly, all students who submitted proposals retained ownership of their business concepts.
First Place Winner: A New App for Baseball Players
The first-place prize was awarded to Matt Ventura, a junior majoring in computer science. Ventura’s winning idea is a sports-specific mobile application aimed at helping baseball players find consistent throwing partners outside of organized activities. The app utilizes geo-location technology to match players based on their skill levels and availability. Additionally, it features verified locations and an in-app chat function, enhancing user interaction and connectivity.
Innovative Solutions for Restaurants and Small Businesses
Second place went to Ethan Gallardo, a junior studying data science, for his concept of a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system specifically designed for restaurants. This innovative system provides real-time dashboards and integrates AI-powered analytics, which can assist managers in optimizing menus, forecasting demand, and improving staffing decisions.
The third-place honor was claimed by Zoe Tuttle, a senior majoring in social media theory and strategy. Her project focuses on accessible digital marketing support for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and creators. Tuttle’s service model offers personalized social media strategy packets, ad management, and educational resources aimed at helping clients strengthen and sustain their digital presence.
The Business Idea Competition not only fosters innovation and creativity among Kutztown University students but also encourages them to take ownership of their ideas in a supportive environment. As the university continues to promote entrepreneurial initiatives, events like this highlight the potential for student-led ventures to impact the local and broader business community.
