Dayton School of Business event gives aspiring entrepreneurs real-world experience in pitching and developing business ideas
Asbury University’s Dayton School of Business (DSB) recently hosted the Eagle’s Nest Pitch Competition, an engaging, Shark Tank–style event that brought student entrepreneurship to life. Organized by the Entrepreneurship Club in partnership with the Small Business Management class, the competition gave students the opportunity to present business ideas they had developed throughout the semester.
Five teams stepped forward to pitch their concepts before a panel of judges, who asked thoughtful questions and evaluated each idea’s viability, creativity, and execution. Judges included Mackenzie Hanes, Director of Awesome Inc U and Partnerships Manager at Awesome Inc; Dr. Michael Ross, Associate Professor of Marketing; and Bill Bryant, Chief Technology Officer at Stellar Ops.
The Eagle’s Nest Pitch Competition is an opportunity for DSB Students to demonstrate the gifts that the Lord has given them in the field of business and risk-taking.”
“While risk is undoubtedly scary for anyone to accept, the ownership of risk is emblematic of the call of Jesus upon each of our lives – to pursue His will in the midst of desperate uncertainty! I am so thankful for DSB students who take Him at His word and follow Him in complete obedience to serve others for His glory.”
Asbury students showcased a wide range of innovative ideas:
Each team demonstrated creativity alongside practical business skills developed through coursework and mentorship. The judges ultimately awarded first place to Nathan Livingston for Perfect Blend. Second place went to the Mamas Muffins team, and Bury Clean received third place..
The Asbury Eagle’s Nest Pitch Competition equips students with real-world experience in communication, critical thinking, and business strategy: skills that directly prepare them for the evolving demands of the marketplace.
The DSB also reflects the strength of Asbury’s partnerships, including support from Awesome Inc, whose grant helped launch the Entrepreneurship Club and make events like this possible.
Through events like the Eagle’s Nest Pitch Competition, the Dayton School of Business continues to cultivate innovation, confidence, and leadership among its students.
The DSB offers five majors (Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and Sport Management), five minors (Accounting, Business, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Sport Management), the MBA program, and the M.S. in Accounting program.