Aug. 3, 2026

Student View: Learning Startup Life From The Inside

Katyra Waller is a senior at Michigan State University majoring in Advertising Management with a minor in Business. During her time at MSU, she has been involved in the Multicultural Business Program’s Student Business Institute, the Residential Business Community, served as Social Media Director for the MSU Entrepreneurship Association and currently leads new business at 42point7, a student-run marketing agency.

“I was first introduced to the Burgess Institute before I was even a student at Michigan State. During a high school visit for the DECA State Leadership Summit, I toured the Hatch and learned about everything the Institute had to offer. I remember thinking that it was exactly the kind of community I wanted to be a part of if I came to MSU.

When I arrived on campus that fall, I connected with Lori Fisher, who introduced me to the many opportunities available through the Burgess Institute. That conversation opened the door to a new part of my college experience, and entrepreneurship quickly became something I wanted to explore further.

That journey eventually led me to the Spartans for Startups internship program, where I connected with MIA (Missing In Action), a startup founded by MSU alumna Jordan Polk (B.S. ’21). Although Jordan first came to MSU for Innovate State and I wasn’t able to attend because of another commitment, I didn’t let that stop me from pursuing the opportunity to work with her company. Through Spartans for Startups, I joined MIA, a company developing haircare products designed to protect hair and scalp from outdoor elements like UV rays, chlorine, dry air and saltwater.

My internship with MIA has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience, allowing me to contribute to a mission I believe in while learning what it takes to build a startup from the ground up.

As a member of MIA’s Brand Communications team, I contributed to creator partnerships, social media strategy, campaign development, copywriting and community engagement. I also helped launch MIA’s TikTok Shop by creating organic content that drove product sales. Beyond marketing, I had the opportunity to sit in on manufacturing, supply chain and market expansion discussions, giving me a firsthand look at how every part of a startup works together to grow a business.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success is built through consistency, persistence and trusting the process. Watching MIA grow has shown me how small efforts compound over time. Helping plan experiential marketing campaigns reinforced that lesson, as I saw the strategy and preparation behind each event before watching customers engage with the brand in person. It reminded me that meaningful results come from the work you put in long before anyone else sees it.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve taken from my internship was Jordan’s advice: put your ideas into the world instead of waiting for them to be perfect. I’ve always been someone who wanted everything to be just right before taking the next step, but this experience taught me that growth comes from taking action, learning through failure and improving along the way.

That mindset has changed how I approach both school and my career. I’m more willing to take risks, trust my instincts and embrace opportunities that challenge me. Looking back, it’s the same mindset that led me pursue the opportunity with MIA in the first place.

Looking ahead, I know this experience will continue to shape both my professional and entrepreneurial goals. Entrepreneurship has taught me that not everyone will immediately understand your vision, and that’s okay. What matters is believing in your ideas enough to keep working toward them, even when you hear ‘no.’

My advice to other students is to take advantage of your network, the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the resources available to you. If there’s a company you admire or want to work with, don’t be afraid to reach out. Send the LinkedIn message, ask for the introduction and start the conversation. You never know where one conversation might lead.”

July 21, 2026

Single Scoop Wins University Pitch Madness, Continuing MSU’s Winning Streak

By Jessica Grover, student writer

Single Scoop, an innovative pre-workout vending machine designed to make sports nutrition more accessible and convenient, earned first place and a ,000 prize at University Pitch Madness in Chicago.

Founded by Michigan State University student entrepreneurs David Lalaj (‘26) and David Heyn, (‘26), Single Scoop is reimagining how consumers purchase pre-workout supplements by offering single-serving options through automated vending machines. The founders impressed the judges with their innovative approach and ability to communicate the venture’s value, earning them the top prize among student startups from leading universities across the Midwest.

Hosted by DePaul University, University Pitch Madness brings together student entrepreneurs from institutions across the Midwest including the University of Chicago, DePaul, Illinois, Illinois Institute of Technology, Iowa, Michigan State, and Washington University in St. Louis. Each university sent up to three student ventures to participate in a tradeshow-style showcase, with one top-voted team advancing to deliver a live pitch before a panel of entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.

Single Scoop was one of three ventures selected to represent MSU at this year’s competition. The university was also represented by Ekos, a smart salon operating system designed to simplify business operations for beauty professionals founded by Kyli Corder (‘26), and ParPack, an innovative gold accessory that transforms any golf bag with a detachable backpack founded by Kaylie Livingston (‘29).

The ,000 prize will help accelerate Single Scoop’s next phase of growth. Heyn and Lalaj plan to use the funding to purchase a fifth vending machine, moving the venture closer to its goal of operating 10 machines by the end of the year as they continue growing the business.

This win marks Michigan State’s third consecutive first-place finish at University Pitch Madness and continues a remarkable run of success for ventures supported by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. In 2024, BRCĒ, founded by Madhav Aggarwal (‘26) and Tanvi Gadamsetti (‘26) claimed the competition’s top prize. In 2025, CocoMar, founded by Fatima Taha (‘26), Valentina Sgrillo (‘26), and Breno Tepedino (‘25), continued the streak. This year’s win further reinforces MSU’s reputation for developing innovative student entrepreneurs who can compete and succeed on regional stages.

From developing their first ideas to competing on regional stages, Spartan entrepreneurs are supported by the Burgess Institute through mentorship, experiential learning and a community dedicated to helping them build and grow their ventures. As student founders refine their ventures and prepare for growth, competitions like University Pitch Madness provide an opportunity to validate their businesses, gain valuable feedback and showcase the innovation emerging from Michigan State University.

July 10, 2026

Michigan’s Future Entrepreneurs Build the Skills to Lead at MSU’s Entrepreneur Leadership Camp

By Jessica Grover, student writer

Each summer Michigan State University welcomes a new cohort of aspiring entrepreneurs eager to turn ideas into reality. From June 22–25, high school students from across the midwest gathered in East Lansing on MSU’s campus to immerse themselves in entrepreneurship, leadership and innovation.

Some students arrived with businesses already in motion while others came with curiosity and a willingness to learn. Over four days, they embraced confidence to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom. By the end of the camp they were not just students, but future founders ready to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and explore what’s possible.

The camp started as a vision in 2022 through a partnership between MSU’s Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Multicultural Business Programs.The Entrepreneur Leadership Camp transforms the Entrepreneurship Lab in the Eli Broad College of Business into a space where students strengthen their leadership skills, tackle real world challenges and gain the confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial passions.

Marquis Taylor, program coordinator for the Multicultural Business Programs, believes introducing students to entrepreneurship at an early age helps them envision opportunities they may not have otherwise considered. “Introducing high school students to entrepreneurship expands their options for life after graduation,” Taylor said. “Whether they pursue entrepreneurship or careers in marketing, accounting or finance, they’re discovering new possibilities for their future. More importantly, I hope they leave this camp with meaningful connections and a community they can lean on long after these four days are over.”

Open to rising high school juniors and seniors, the Entrepreneur Leadership Camp offers a hands-on, fast paced experience that introduces students to the realities of entrepreneurship. Throughout the camp, participants engage in interactive workshops led by entrepreneurs, business leaders and industry professionals. Working alongside their peers, they develop business ideas into comprehensive plans while gaining practical insight into what it takes to launch and grow a venture. Along the way, students receive mentorship from local founders and Spartan entrepreneurs who are actively shaping our ecosystem.

Throughout the week, students learned from an impressive lineup of entrepreneurs, business leaders and alumni who shared their experiences building companies, overcoming challenges and creating opportunities. Sessions included an alumni panel featuring Shon Hart, Koi Mitchell and Tarek Chawich; a franchise discussion with Tyree Williams and Andrea Jones; hands-on workshops led by Dimitri Cason and Erika Austin; and an entrepreneur panel featuring Lindsey Fredrick, Henry Kwok and Robin Kinnie. The camp concluded with a keynote from Greg Kelser, who challenged students to lead with confidence, resilience and purpose.

What made the experience especially impactful was the opportunity for students to connect with each speaker beyond the stage. Whether asking questions after a session, seeking career advice or discussing their own business ideas, participants built meaningful relationships with experienced entrepreneurs who generously shared their time, encouragement and perspective.

Bobby Jones, a rising senior at Cranbrook Kingswood High School and a 2026 Entrepreneur Leadership Camp participant, encouraged future participants to make the most of every opportunity.

“Ask a lot of questions and be an active listener,” Jones said. “You want to be present in the moment and take advantage of the opportunity to be in a room with experienced professionals.”

Experiences like these are made possible through the support of Tamira Chapman, CEO of Storehouse In A Box and founder of the Chapman Family Foundation. A MSU alumna and accomplished entrepreneur, Chapman has been instrumental in creating opportunities for the next generation of founders. Through her investment in the Entrepreneur Leadership Camp and her commitment to mentorship, she is helping students see that entrepreneurship is within reach and that their ideas have the potential to create meaningful impact.

That impact was evident throughout the week as students immersed themselves in hands-on learning and mentorship opportunities. Lori Fischer, director of outreach and engagement at the Burgess Institute, said what stood out to her most to her was how engaged the students were throughout the camp.

“They asked thoughtful questions, eagerly sought feedback from speakers, and embraced every opportunity to learn. Their curiosity and willingness to tackle real-world challenges showed that entrepreneurship is fueled by a mindset of exploration and problem solving qualities these students demonstrated from day one,” Fischer said.

The Entrepreneur Leadership Camp is more than an introduction to entrepreneurship. It is a starting point for students to see themselves as changemakers. By providing mentorship, resources and a community that encourages exploration. Through this program the next generation of entrepreneurs take their first steps toward turning ideas into action.

July 2, 2026

Six Weeks of Innovation Through the 2026 MOMENTUM Accelerator

By Jessica Grover, student writer

The 2026 MOMENTUM powered by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University, is a six-week experience designed to help student founders build, test, and refine their ventures through hands on learning and real-world engagement.

Throughout the six-week accelerator, seven student teams including Ekos, Coldbridge, E-Z Lift, Kernex, Memory Sketch, Sapt.ai and Zoris engaged in an immersive, hands-on experience designed to help founders test their ideas, gain exposure and prepare for continued venture growth. Through coaching, mentorship, and feedback, students embraced the entrepreneurial process of learning, iterating, and taking action by testing ideas, making decisions in real time and continuously moving their ventures forward.

“MOMENTUM had a huge impact with all of the people I’ve met and the new connections I’ve made,” said Alana Lungard, (B.A’26) and chief marketing officer of Sapt.ai, “This program helped us focus and really figure out what our mission is moving forward and dial in what we want to be doing.”

Beyond weekly venture refining activities, participants explored Michigan’s major innovation hubs including — Detroit, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor to engage within the entrepreneurial ecosystems. Throughout these visits, they connected with organizations and Spartan alumni that opened their doors for insights into innovation in action, including Apple Developer Academy, NewLab, Bamboo, SPARK, The Dancing Pine, 1 Million Cups, and SKY7.

In Detroit, Lindsay Joseph and Tim Moore hosted a pitch perfect workshop focused on sharpening venture narratives, while Taylor Kangiowski facilitated a storytelling session that emphasized clarity, confidence, and authentic communication. In Grand Rapids, Anna Baeten hosted a leadership development session centered on building strong teams and developing a resilient founder mindset. Matt Gira, owner of Bamboo, opened the space, offering a tour and hands-on exposure to a collaborative environment designed to support innovation and community.

The cohort also gathered at The Dancing Pine hosted by Min Kyu Kim, creating space for connection. The experience concluded with Vineet Katial of SPARK, who led a venture capital session focused on understanding pathways, investor, expectations, and what it takes to scale early-stage ideas

The program concluded with Demo Day, bringing together founders, mentors, and community partners from across the region. Teams showcased their progress and how their ideas were shaped through ongoing feedback and experimentation, reflecting the entrepreneurial mindset at the core of the experience. It marked a celebration of innovation and collaboration while highlighting the drive that continues to power Michigan State’s entrepreneurial community

This year’s accelerator would not have been possible without the support of Chris Gibbons, a successful co-founder, entrepreneur, and high-growth venture executive. Through her commitment to supporting the Burgess Institute and the Dashney Women’s Leadership Accelerator, Gibbons has helped provide Spartan founders with the resources and opportunities needed to turn ideas into growing ventures.

As the seven teams move beyond MOMENTUM, they leave with more refined businesses and polished pitches, they carry forward new relationships, deeper confidence and an expanded entrepreneurial mindset that will continue to shape their journey as founders and innovators.

June 18, 2026

Chris Sell Transitions to New Role Within the Broad College of Business

By Aubrey Haase

After more than a decade helping shape and grow Michigan State University’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, Chris Sell has been named director of corporate and student relations for the department of Supply Chain Management in the Broad College of Business. Chris will begin his new role on July 6, with his final day supporting the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Broad College of Business fundraising team on July 3.

Since joining the university’s entrepreneurship program in 2016, Chris has played a pivotal role in the growth of the Burgess Institute. During his tenure, the Institute evolved from a young entrepreneurship program supporting a single annual scholarship into one of the nation’s leading undergraduate entrepreneurship programs, serving thousands of students, alumni, and community members each year.

As director of alumni & entrepreneur engagement, and later serving as associate director of development, Chris helped strengthen the Institute’s network of alumni, donors, founders, investors, and community partners. His efforts expanded opportunities for students while helping build the relationships and philanthropic support that continue to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation at MSU.

Among his many contributions, Chris played a key role in the development of the Spartan Founders Club, helping establish a community of founders, executives, investors, and supporters committed to advancing entrepreneurship education at MSU. He also helped secure support for major university initiatives, including the Leinweber Center for Engineering and Digital Innovation.

Chris has been instrumental in building relationships that have expanded opportunities for Spartan entrepreneurs and strengthened the Institute’s impact across campus and beyond, said Laurel Ofstein, senior director of the Burgess Institute. His dedication to our students, alumni, and entrepreneurial community has helped shape who we are today.

In his new role, Chris will serve as a liaison between corporate partners and university stakeholders, helping strengthen industry relationships, expand experiential learning opportunities, and connect students with meaningful career and professional development opportunities within the supply chain management department.

The Institute’s leadership team is actively developing a thoughtful transition plan to ensure continued momentum and support for MSU’s entrepreneurial community. The Burgess Institute remains committed to strengthening its alumni, donor, and community partnerships while continuing to support the next generation of Spartan entrepreneurs.

The Burgess Institute extends its sincere gratitude to Chris for his leadership, dedication, and service to MSU. His contributions have helped create lasting opportunities for Spartan entrepreneurs and strengthen the foundation for future generations of founders, innovators, and leaders. The relationships, programs, and community he helped build will continue to create opportunities for students and strengthen MSU’s entrepreneurial ecosystem for years to come.

June 15, 2026

Student View: Transforming My Beauty Industry Experience Into Innovation

Kyli Corder is a senior at Michigan State University, majoring in advertising management in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences with a minor in entrepreneurship & innovation. She is a licensed cosmetologist, national beauty educator and the recipient of the Spartan Founders Club and James Ian Gray Scholarships, bringing more than a decade of experience in the beauty industry and over 11,000 color services performed. That experience ultimately inspired her to launch Ekos, an AI-powered salon operating system designed to help independent stylists and salons better understand their businesses through data-driven insights.

When I decided to go back to school and finish my degree, my advisor suggested the Minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation. It made sense. I’m a licensed cosmetologist, a former salon suite owner, and someone whose spent years frustrated by how outdated technology in the beauty industry was. Eventually, that frustration turned into building, and that idea became Ekos.

My first entrepreneurship class was with Ken Szymusiak, and that class cracked something open for me. He laid out everything the Burgess Institute had to offer, and what he said stuck with me: What do you have to lose? We have programs here that will help you build your venture — and even if you fail, you will have gained that experience. You’re still in college. Now’s the perfect time. That perspective changed how I approached the opportunity in front of me.

One of our class requirements was attending entrepreneurial events, including 2DAY VENTURE. It was a hectic semester, I was nervous, and didn’t know what to expect. But the second I walked in, a group of strangers welcomed me. Seven people from seven different majors, who probably never would have crossed paths otherwise, and we spent 36 hours building a brand together. We won something. That felt like a sign.

What kept me coming back was the community. Entrepreneurship can be isolating, especially when people don’t fully understand what you’re building. The community at the Burgess Institute felt different. Through pitch competitions, workshops, mentorship, and the MOMENTUM Accelerator program, I found people who challenged me to think bigger and gave me real tools to turn a concept into an actual business.

Being accepted into the MOMENTUM Accelerator program took that experience even further. I was surrounded by other founders who were navigating the exact same doubts, challenges, and little victories I was experiencing and that made a huge difference. Access to mentors, investors, successful entrepreneurs, and fellow founders created this environment where growth just a happened naturally.

My favorite part was getting outside my normal bubble. Touring innovation hubs, learning from founders, and having honest conversations without everything being sugarcoated pushed me to think differently about my business and myself.

Before being a part of the Burgess Institute, I knew my industry inside and out. I had years of experience, a book of clients, and a clear vision of the problem I wanted to solve. What I didn’t have was a startup skill set. These programs taught me how to communicate my vision, validate ideas, and build real relationships within Michigan’s startup ecosystem.

More than anything, I gained confidence to keep moving forward.

As a founder, you’re constantly stepping into the unknown. I’ve learned that you don’t need to have everything figured out. You need to stay open, keep learning, and keep moving forward even when things are uncertain.

Building Ekos has come with its own set of challenges. I used to believe that if I could just build the right product, it would solve everything, but it doesn’t work that way. The real challenge is staying resilient through setbacks, pivots, and the slow stretches where progress feels invisible.

Those experiences have shaped how I work and how I lead. They’ve taught me to stay focused on the bigger mission while remaining flexible in how I get there. Every obstacle has made me a better problem-solver, a more patient founder, and a stronger advocate for the people I’m building for.

One lesson continues to stand out: your network matters. Some of the most important opportunities I’ve had didn’t come from a pitch deck. They came from relationships. Showing up, communicating your values, and being in the right rooms opens doors in ways you don’t expect.

My path at MSU hasn’t been traditional. I’m a non-traditional student, balancing school with family, work, and building a business. There have been semesters when I didn’t know how I would get through everything and choosing to take classes in person instead of online wasn’t the easiest option, but it gave me the experiences and connections I was looking for.

MSU has given me more than a degree. It has given me access to a community that believed in my vision before it was fully realized. Through the Burgess Institute, I’ve had the opportunity to pitch on real stages, connect with founders, and continue building Ekos into something that I believe can make a meaningful impact in the beauty industry.

What stands out most isn’t just the programs or the events. It’s the people, the conversations, and the growth that happened along the way. This experience showed me that big ideas can come from anywhere, and sometimes the most important thing you can do is keep showing up, even before you feel ready.

June 12, 2026

MSU All-American Greg Kelser Set on Return to Campus for Entrepreneurship Camp Keynote Address

By Katie Gallagher

The energy of an MSU All – American will once again be present on campus this June. Gregory Kelser will deliver the keynote address of the 2026 Entrepreneur Leadership Camp at MSU Broad College of Business June 22-25.

To the high school juniors and seniors in audience, he will be known as a legendary broadcaster and a former NBA first-round pick. To the university, he will always be Special K, the co-captain who flew high alongside Magic Johnson to bring MSU its historic 1979 NCAA Championship title. He won’t be here to talk about fast breaks or championship rings, but how he has successfully applied his All-American mindset to his life, career and philanthropic efforts.

“We are extremely honored and excited to have Mr. Kelser deliver the keynote address to young aspiring entrepreneurs,” says Marquis Taylor, MBP assistant director for Strategic Partnerships, Alumni and Employer Relations. “This year marks the 5th anniversary of our camp, which deserves the special message and presence of an All-American Spartan who has accomplished so much in his personal and professional life.”

The All-American Mindset

Turns out the grueling practices, film studies, and late-night discipline under Coach Jud Heathcote weren’t just about winning the 1979 National Championship but were a masterclass in how to plan and execute. “My days as an athlete has taught me many things that were transferable once my playing days were over and I entered into the realm of entrepreneurship,” Kelser explains. “First you learn that there are going to be ups and downs, good days and bad, and you must keep your balance in both instances. Keeping a sharp focus on your studied plan is essential.” Kelser’s address will undoubtedly bridge the world of championship sports and visionary business.

Kelser acknowledges that no one wins a championship alone, similarly no one builds successful businesses alone. “Business teammates don’t have to all think alike. In fact, it’s probably best that they don’t,” Kelser explains. “The thing that needs to be consistent is the goal and determination to achieve it.” He notes that in addition to teammates in business, playbooks are also as vital in business as they are in sports. “In business, your playbook is your set of principles. This sets the tone for how you will manage your team and program on a daily basis. Your playbook is your philosophy. It sets the expectations and acknowledges the things are not negotiable. Principles are not to be compromised.”

Blueprint for Young Entrepreneurs

“The high school camp allows participants to learn entrepreneurial concepts and then to
immediately try them out in a safe, hands-on environment, supported by mentors. We
want every student to leave with more confidence in their creativity and their ability to
take new ideas and turn them into innovations for existing or new businesses,” said
Laurel Oftstein senior director of the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship &
Innovation. “Kelser’s perspective will show students how resilience and an
entrepreneurial mindset create real-world opportunity.”

Kelser anticipates the most important message he will want to relay to the campers is this: As soon as you are able as an entrepreneur, it’s important to reach back and help someone who was once in your shoes.” Kelser continues, “Just think of all the people who helped you. Those people that are forever unforgettable for the impact they’ve had on your life. Now go and become an Unforgettable for the role that you will play in someone else’s journey.” It is clear that the All-American spirit is alive and well and will be successfully transferred into the minds of MSU’s future business leaders.

Kesler’s Keynote Address is set to take place on June 25 at 2 p.m. in the MSU Broad College of Business.

April 30, 2026

Five Entrepreneurial Graduates Receive MSU Board of Trustees Award for Academic Excellence

By Jessica Grover, student writer

Five students affiliated with the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University have been selected to receive the MSU Board of Trustees Award for academic excellence, one of the university’s highest academic recognitions.

Presented by the MSU Board of Trustees, this award honors graduating students who achieved a perfect 4.0 cumulative GPA over the course of their academic careers.

The graduates were formally recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on April 10th and honored during their respective undergraduate commencement ceremonies.

These students paired their academic excellence with intensive learning opportunities that extended beyond the classroom through their involvement with the Burgess Institute. The graduating entrepreneurship students receiving the Board of Trustees’ award are

• Courtney A. Cohen from Commerce Township, MI, who earned a bachelor’s in advertising creative from the College of Communication and Arts Sciences with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
• Brooke E. Roth from Bloomfield Hills, MI, earned a bachelor’s in advertising management from the College of Communication and Arts Sciences with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
• Lindsey M. Wendling from New Lothrop, MI, earned a bachelor’s in accounting from the Eli Broad College of Business with a minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
• Liam Bordoni from St. Charles, IL, earned a bachelor’s in graphic design from the College of Arts and Letters, and is a member of the Burgess Institute’s Discovery Program, and the Honors College.
• Emmanuel Zephyrin Ephrem bu Butsana Lansing, MI, earned a bachelor’s in electrical engineering and in computer engineering from the College of Engineering, and is a member of the Burgess Institute’s Discovery Program, and the Honors College.

About the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation: The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is the destination where students launch high-impact, entrepreneurial journeys at Michigan State University. The Burgess Institute empowers students to learn through action by providing global mentors, courses, seed funding, entrepreneurship competitions, student organizations, resources, and campus-wide co-working spaces.

To view the entire list of 315 honored students, visit MSUToday.

April 30, 2026

MSU Startup Wins UGA’s Next Top Entrepreneur

By Aubrey Haase

BRCĒ, a student-founded startup from Michigan State University, earned first place at the University of Georgia’s Next Top Entrepreneur Competition, securing the ,000 grand prize.

Co-founded by MSU students Madhav Aggarwal (‘26) and Tanvi Gadamsetti (‘26), BRCĒ was selected from a national pool of 80 student ventures and advanced through multiple rounds of evaluation before being named the top team among 11 finalists invited to pitch in Athens, Georgia.

Hosted by UGA’s Entrepreneurship Program, the Next Top Entrepreneur Competition brings together leading undergraduate founders from across the country to present ventures with strong business models and growth potential. Finalists are selected through a competitive review process and pitch live in front of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.

BRCĒ, a performance materials technology company, developing advanced fiber and yarn technologies designed for performance-driven applications across industries. The venture continues to build traction through national competitions and partnerships as the team refines its materials and scales its approach.

This win marks a return to Athens for the team, who previously competed in the UGA’s Collegiate Great Brands Competition in the spring of 2025, where they also earned a first-place finish.

Throughout their time at MSU, the team has actively competed on the national stage, using pitch competitions as a platform to test, refine, and advance their venture. As one of their final pitch competitions as students, this milestone represents a defining moment as they prepare to take their ventures full-time.

About the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation
The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is the destination where students launch high-impact, entrepreneurial journeys at Michigan State University. The Burgess Institute empowers students to learn through action by providing global mentors, courses, seed funding, entrepreneurship competitions, student organizations, resources, and campus-wide co-working spaces.

April 30, 2026

MSU Startup BioMex Wins e-Fest 2026 Championship

By Aubrey Haase

BioMex, a student-founded startup from Michigan State University, has been named the Grand Champion of e-Fest 2026, earning first place and ,000 in non-dilutive funding at the Schulze Entrepreneurship Challenge.

Founded by College of Engineering students Madhav Aggarwal (’26) and Tanvi Gadamsetti (’26) BioMex was selected as one of 25 undergraduate ventures from across North America to compete in e-Fest, hosted by the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship at the University of St. Thomas. The competition brings together top student founders for a three-day experience of pitching, mentorship, and evaluation by entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders.

BioMex advanced through multiple rounds of competition to secure first place. The team is building a material-tech healthcare company focused on innovation at the intersection of materials science and human health.

As their final pitch competition as students at Michigan State University, this win marks a defining moment as they transition to building their ventures, BioMex and BRCĒ, full-time.

About the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation
The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is the destination where students launch high-impact, entrepreneurial journeys at Michigan State University. The Burgess Institute empowers students to learn through action by providing global mentors, courses, seed funding, entrepreneurship competitions, student organizations, resources, and campus-wide co-working spaces.