Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship

Earlier today, five student startups pitched to a panel of judges for the first Pitch Dingman Competition of 2013. The competition was fierce and each entrepreneur put up equally compelling arguments for their ventures. In the end the judges and audience both chose Wheel Shields as their winning student startup, with UPride receiving 2^nd place honors. Wheel Shields was awarded $2,250 and a Cupid’s Cup prize package allowing the company to participate in the Cupid’s Cup Business & Innovation Showcase on April 5. UPride took home $500 to propel their business. Congratulations to both startups, the Dingman Center expects great things from you in the future!

We’d also like to recognize Parallel Tracks, Electric Squeeze and Adaptive Motion Technologies for giving great pitches, we wish them the best in their ventures, and given their performance, we’re sure they’re well on their way!

About Wheel Shields

Student Entrepreneur: Chase Kaczmarek

Shield Boards, LCC produces my patented invention Wheel Shields. Wheel Shields are a skateboarding accessory that solve “wheel bite” (a dangerous safety problem), keep riders dry and allow riders to stand over their wheels. “Wheel bite” occurs during hard turns when wheels come in contact with the deck, stopping the board and throwing riders to the pavement. Wheel Shields completely eliminate “wheel bite” and work universally with any skateboard. Wheel Shields have gone viral: our Facebook page has over 25,000 likes, we’re endorsed by a Guinness world record-holding skater, and we are in an upcoming edition of Heelside Magazine.

About Pitch Dingman Competition

Twice a semester, students can compete for $2,750 in start-up funding at the Pitch Dingman Competition. Everyone is welcome to attend Pitch Dingman Competitions as an audience member and there is no need to register. The next Pitch Dingman Competition is scheduled for Friday May 10, 2013 Interested in competing? Start with an informal Pitch Dingman Session