Ivy Tech Community College Northeast has announced the three finalists for its 2017 New Venture Competition. In its seventh year, the competition’s champion will receive at least $20,000 in start-up capital for presenting the best business plan for his or her small business.
The finalists and their businesses are as follows:
- Kendall Riecken, business administration student
Company: KR Designs
“We are an automotive-based company, specializing in detailing, restoration, custom paint, and collision repair. Our customers consist of automotive enthusiasts and car/vehicle owners.” - Courtney Jagoda, building construction management student
Company: Caliber Contracting
“We build tiny houses that are affordable and allow customers freedom to customize to fit their needs/wants.” - Clayton Ostermeyer, business administration student
Company: The Vault
“The Vault is a speakeasy-themed bar with an indoors cigar lounge, located in downtown Fort Wayne.”
The New Venture Competition awards dinner is Sept. 28 on Ivy Tech Northeast’s Coliseum Campus, 3800 N. Anthony Blvd., in Room CC1640. Finalists will present their business plans, and community judges will vote on the New Venture champion at the event.
The competition has partnered with Fort Wayne SCORE, a group that grows successful small businesses across the country. The group, made of volunteer experienced business owners and managers, will provide mentorship for the finalists.
The New Venture Competition is sponsored by JB Tool, Die & Engineering and owners Dave and Mary Bear. ProFed Credit Union is the event’s dinner sponsor.
The following College faculty and administration served as judges in determining the finalists:
- Elaine Novak, dean, Business and Public Services Division
- Patrick McCormick, department chair, Business and Hospitality Administration
- Carla Quickel, associate professor, Business Administration
Inside Ivy Tech 