Kutztown University’s College of Business has announced the winners of the 2025 Business Idea Competition, a platform showcasing the innovative spirit of its students. The competition took place on November 19, 2025, where six finalists presented their entrepreneurial concepts in the de Francesco Building before a panel of judges. Participants competed for cash prizes, with awards of $1,000 for first place, $750 for second, and $500 for third.
The first-place award was claimed by Matt Ventura, a junior majoring in computer science. Ventura’s project is a sports-specific mobile application aimed at helping baseball players find reliable throwing partners outside of organized practice. The app utilizes geo-location technology to connect players based on their skill levels and availability, incorporating features such as verified locations and in-app chat.
Following closely, the second-place prize was awarded to Ethan Gallardo, a junior studying data science. Gallardo’s entry is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored specifically for restaurants. This innovative system offers real-time dashboards and integrates AI-powered analytics to assist managers in optimizing menus, forecasting demand, and refining staffing decisions.
The third-place honor went to Zoe Tuttle, a senior focusing on social media theory and strategy. Tuttle’s project provides accessible digital marketing support for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and creators. Her service model includes personalized social media strategy packets, ad management, and educational resources designed to help clients enhance and maintain their digital presence.
All participants in the competition retained ownership of their business ideas, ensuring that their entrepreneurial efforts are recognized and protected. The event not only highlighted the creativity of Kutztown University students but also demonstrated the institution’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the academic community.