ADA, Okla. – This spring, students from the Stonecipher School of Business at East Central University participated in the i2E Entrepreneur’s Cup, sponsored by Love’s Travel Stops.
According to Dr. Stacey Bolin, ECU’s director of the Wilburn L. Smith Center for Entrepreneurship, “The Entrepreneur’s Cup helps students advance an idea or prepare for launch through a series of competitive, hands-on experiences.”
Participants begin by meeting with an industry expert, then develop a comprehensive business plan complete with pro forma financials before ultimately pitching their venture to a panel of judges. Throughout the process, teams receive valuable feedback and mentorship from business professionals across the state.
“While the generous prize money sponsored by Love’s Travel Stops provides strong motivation,” Bolin said, “every participant leaves the competition with actionable insights and practical guidance to help move their venture forward. Our ECU students and students across the state benefit from the support and investment of i2E, Love’s, and all of the other sponsors and judges who support the Entrepreneur’s Cup.”
Seth Spady earned second place in the Small Business Division with his project, In"Vase"ive Forestry. The Oklahoma company transforms invasive and reclaimed timber into handcrafted home décor and lumber, turning an environmental challenge into a sustainable business opportunity.
Katie Crabtree earned third place in the Small Business Division with her project, Heirloom Fashion House, a U.S.-made women’s clothing brand built around timeless, ethically produced garments sold directly to consumers with an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship.
Aubrey Junk and Milana Khaikhan were named finalists in the Small Business Division for their project, JK Shop, a handmade accessories brand creating fully customizable, bead-by-bead bags and goods that highlight craftsmanship, personalization and a premium design.
“I am incredibly proud of how hard our ECU students work toward their goals,” Bolin said. “This year’s winners already have entrepreneurial experience that has helped shape their drive and understanding of how hard work pays off. While they each have many talents, their grit and entrepreneurial spirit will continue to open doors for their future success.”
This year, ECU students took home a combined total of $28,000.
The Entrepreneur’s Cup is a statewide collegiate business plan competition that simulates the real-world process of researching a market, writing a business plan and making a presentation to potential investors. Over its 22-year history, more than 3,150 students have participated, showcasing 995 innovative ideas and receiving $2.96 million in awards.
The program is sponsored by Love’s Travel Stops and administered by i2E, a private not-for-profit corporation focused on growing innovative small businesses in Oklahoma and making a positive impact on the state’s economy.
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