DSU Entrepreneur Club Hosts “Shark Tank” Pitching Competition

On February 27, the Entrepreneur Club at Dakota State University hosted its very own version of a high-stakes business pitch event: DSU Shark Tank. The competition gave students the opportunity to step into the role of entrepreneurs and present original business ideas, showcasing their creativity, initiative, and entrepreneurial mindset.

The event featured three faculty members from the College of Business and Information Systems—Wendy Simmerson, Brenda Merkel, and Deb Tech—who served as the “Sharks.” Acting as potential investors, they evaluated each pitch, asked critical questions, and ultimately decided how to allocate a total prize pool of $600 among the competitors.

Five students competed individually in the event, each bringing a unique idea and solution to the table. The participants included Carson Sauseda, Brian Aranki, Sulaksh Rajlawat, Tobey Lee, and Niyongabo Yohana. Each competitor approached a problem from a different angle, demonstrating not only innovation but also the ability to think critically about real-world challenges and market opportunities.

Throughout the competition, students presented their business concepts, outlining their target audience, value proposition, and potential for growth. The Sharks engaged with each participant, offering feedback and insight while testing the strength and feasibility of their ideas. The format encouraged both competition and learning, giving students a glimpse into what real-world pitching and investment scenarios can look like.

At the conclusion of the event, the prize money was distributed among all five participants, recognizing the effort and originality of each pitch. Carson Sauseda and Brian Aranki each received $150 for their business ideas, while Sulaksh Rajlawat was awarded $120. Tobey Lee and Niyongabo Yohana each earned $80.

While the competition determined monetary winners, the event itself highlighted something more significant—the growing culture of entrepreneurship at DSU. By providing a platform for students to test their ideas and receive direct feedback from faculty, the Entrepreneur Club continues to foster innovation and encourage students to think beyond the classroom.

Events like DSU Shark Tank not only build confidence but also prepare students for future opportunities in business, startups, and leadership. With strong participation and engaging pitches, the competition proved that the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well at Dakota State University.