This spring's CVU Entrepreneurship students participated in an Elevator Pitch Competition as their final exam. It is called an "elevator pitch" because the entrepreneur's oral presentation is close to the length of a quick elevator ride. Students had two minutes to convey the core elements of their proposed business to the judges. In these two minutes, students concisely outlined their business proposal, marketing strategy, and competitive advantage. Students learned that prospective business owners are strongly encouraged to polish this pitch, since it can mean the difference between raising desired capital and having their business concept flounder. According to Calvin Benevento, one of the winners, "This whole experience gives you valuable insight into what goes into a business. It was really nice to be recognized for my whole semester's worth of work. It was pretty outstanding."

The winners from the W2 class are First Place, Andrew Childs (Trans Port All); Second Place, Justin Small (Small Town Discs) from Shelburne; and Third Place, Mark Leahy (North American Connected Produce) from Shelburne. The winners from the R2 class are First Place, Tom Gibbs (305 Fishing Adventures) from Shelburne; Second Place, Ellie Wallace (Tempo Dance Studio) and Third Place, Calvin Benevento (Greenship).

The students' presentations were judged by Andrea Wolak, branch president of the Merchant's Bank in Bristol, and Kelly Jordick, branch president of the Merchant's Bank in Hinesburg. The course is taught by Tamie-Jo Dickinson.