UCF jousts for new ventures

University of Central Florida (UCF) is gearing up for the finals of its Joust New Venture Challenge.

Showcasing potential student startups, Joust’s finals will take place on 17 April. The winning team will receive a $10,000 cash prize, as well as resources to help launch the startup. Second, third, and fourth place winners will receive $5,000, $3,000, and $2,000, respectively.

The ideas will be judged on the proposed product or service and its potential market, the financial model backing it, the team suggesting it, and the potential impact of the idea.

Paul Jarley, Dean at the UCF College of Business, said: “The Joust is one of a handful of events in the college that squarely align with the vision for the college. It is at the intersection of town and gown –facilitated by faculty and judged by seasoned business professionals. It is open to any student at UCF and it takes courage to enter, research to prepare a convincing plan and swagger to win.”