Big Ideas, Powerful Pitches: IWU’s Launch It Competition Returns!
MARION, IND. (Mar. 11, 2025) Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) students will be given the opportunity to pitch their entrepreneurial ideas to judges and a live audience on Tuesday, April 8 at 7 p.m. in the Globe Theatre.
"The Launch It Pitch Competition is more than just a competition—it’s a platform for students to step into their calling as entrepreneurs, take bold risks, and bring their ideas to life,” said Dr. Jen Bennett, associate professor of entrepreneurship at IWU. “We believe that students don’t have to wait until after graduation to start making an impact. They can launch boldly right where they are and begin leading in their entrepreneurial callings now.”
The competition is designed to help build an entrepreneurial culture on campus and give students an opportunity to explore the world of entrepreneurship.
The event will begin with a talk from keynote speaker Ben Conner, CEO of Conner Insurance and IWU alumnus. After Conner’s talk, each IWU student who has been chosen to pitch their idea will do so in front of a panel of judges and a live audience. All IWU students and community members are invited to attend.
Following the student pitches, there will be two winners selected. One will be chosen by the panel of judges, and the other by votes from audience members. Each winner will be awarded a cash prize to invest in their idea.
After the event, students who pitched their ideas will be available outside the Globe Theatre to answer questions and discuss their pitch ideas.
This is the second year Launch It has taken place as a successful revamp of IWU’s previous pitch competition, Grand in Sixty. Last year’s event drew a packed audience, with standing-room only, highlighting the growing excitement for student entrepreneurship at IWU.
“Seeing students step onto that stage, share their vision, and gain confidence in their ability to create change is truly inspiring,” said Dr. Bennett.
For more information about the upcoming pitch event, contact Dr. Jen Bennett, @jen.bennett@indwes.edu.
