Tech Fort Wayne has announced the three finalists for its 2024 New Venture Competition. The competition began in 2011 through the vision of Dave and Mary Bear, former owners of JB Tool, Die & Engineering. This year’s champion will receive up to $40,000 in start-up capital for presenting the best business plan for their small business.
Meet the finalists
Ginny Ritchie, general education and entrepreneurship
Company: Ginny Rose Studio, LaGrange
Ginny Rose Studio is an Esthetician owned studio specializing in full body waxing for both anatomies, custom facials, massages and permanent makeup. We aim to be a full service studio for all your personal care needs in northeastern Indiana.
Laura Read, hospitality and entrepreneurship
Company: So Cute Sweets, Atwood
So Cute Sweets specializes in making deliciously tasteful and uniquely creative cake pops for any and all occasions. These cake pops, as well as the other fun treats made by So Cute Sweets, are each made with high-quality ingredients, creative designs, and personalized touches.
Jordan Walter-Lee Setters, entrepreneurship
Company: Soupy, LLC, Fort Wayne
Soupy is a veteran owned and operated food truck business that aims to serve its customers soups and sandwiches that are healthy, affordable, and convenient. The customer base is middle class working age customers that are either into, or looking for convenient food options. Soupy is planning on offering seasonal soups/stews and sandwiches.
The New Venture Competition awards dinner will be held Oct. 10 thanks to the evening’s sponsor ProFed Credit Union. Finalists will pitch their business and community judges will vote on the New Venture champion on Ivy Tech Fort Wayne’s Coliseum Campus (3800 N. Anthony Blvd., room 1640).
Ivy Tech Fort Wayne and Warsaw students and alumni are eligible to compete in the New Venture Competition after successfully completing a certificate from the Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Anyone interested in entering the competition or completing an Entrepreneurship certificate should contact James Tolbert at jtolbert12@ivytech.edu.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
