Event Date
Location
See Innovation In Action!
On April 27, 22 McGuire New Venture Development Program student startup teams will present their innovative new ventures at the 2018 New Venture Competition, a rapid-fire rocket pitch competition and trade show. More than $40,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to winning teams. The event is free and open to the public. Please plan to join us for this exciting event at the Leo Rich Theater, 260 S. Church Ave., in Downtown Tucson.
Students accepted into the McGuire New Venture Development Program receive a year of intensive experiential education where they learn the principles of entrepreneurship through the hands-on process of building an innovation from early-stage idea to launch-ready venture. The competitive-entry program is open to undergraduate and graduate students from across the University of Arizona. The New Venture Development Program class of 2018 is made up of students from the following colleges:
- Eller College of Management
- College of Agriculture and Life Science
- College of Engineering
- College of Fine Arts
- College of Humanities
- College of Pharmacy
- College of Science
- College of Social and Behavioral Studies
- College of Letters, Arts, and Science
Schedule
11am: First Round Pitches
All 22 student startup teams have three minutes to pitch their startups in a rapid-fire rocket pitch round.
2:30pm: Trade Show and People's Choice Voting
Meet and talk with the 22 student startup teams in an interactive trade show and vote for your favorite team to win the People's Choice Award and $2,000!
3:15: Final Round
Five finalists will have a chance to present a 5-minute pitch followed by 5-minutes of Q&A with the judges.
Meet the Teams
![]() |
Providing chemical manufacturers with a reducing agent to drive stronger, better reactions. |
![]() |
A networking platform that gives users access to exclusive nightlife and entertainment experiences through reliable promoters. |
![]() |
Tech-equipped jewelry to discreetly alert trusted contacts and law enforcement of a user’s location in dangerous situations. |
![]() |
Ecocrete manufactures and sells construction materials made of recycled byproducts that are safe, cost-effective and eco-friendly. |
![]() |
In-store location based technologies, serving retailers to help their customers locate everything from items to assistance. |
![]() |
Genesence offers DNA testing for genes related to medication and nutrition, empowering you to take informed steps to a healthier you. |
![]() |
Promoting better lifestyle decisions and reducing future health risks by delivering a comprehensive genomic profile. |
![]() |
Gradeology empowers students by transitioning education management from a reactive to a proactive experience. |
![]() |
Helping Hand Engineering is selling a better lifestyle for those with physical limitations through an assistive glove. |
![]() |
INNOvating the workplace VYBEs one event at a time. |
![]() |
Software empowered community engagement for the 21st century. Info, events, and notifications to residents with one tap. |
![]() |
Nani's wearable technology and easy-to-use app ensure that your loved ones are never lost in the crowd. |
![]() |
A smartphone app that restaurant customers use at sit-down restaurants as an alternative to ordering through a server. |
![]() |
Photo Op connects businesses looking for photographers with professional photographers looking for work. |
![]() |
Prova uses biomedical technology to rapidly test cannabis for quality and potency. |
![]() |
At Pulsar we utilize the power of play to create a better music learning experience. |
![]() |
Revurb helps your favorite content outlets convert their digital articles into audio formats using our software as a service model. |
![]() |
A dealer-free site to connect used car buyers and sellers with trust and confidence through a mechanic certification process. |
![]() |
Shanker & Sons is a company established to capitalize upon the suffering golf industry and provide non-conforming golf equipment to reverse the traditional stereotypes of golf. |
![]() |
Sunshine Foods is an allergy safe food production and delivery service that provides nutritious lunches to K-12 students nationwide. |
![]() |
Teaching children to achieve better habits! |
![]() |
A digital booking platform enabling adventurers to discover and share new travel experiences. |
Thank you to our sponsors and event supporters!