J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge
Do you have a big idea?
Pitch it for a chance to win startup capital in the J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge. This system-wide business plan competition is open to all on-campus LSU students and alumni (graduated within the last year) no matter their majors. Three finalists are selected to pitch for a share of startup cash in the final round in this Shark Tank-style event.
For more than a decade, the J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge has helped LSU students launch and grow businesses. Whether you are operating a business or developing an idea but don't have business experience, this competition is for you.
The 13th annual J Terrell Brown Venture Challenge will be held in spring 2024. For
questions about the event or to be added to an email list about optional preparatory
workshops and events, please contact Fahimeh Abbasi.
2023 Venture Challenge Results
First place: Röllin' Yoggler's Turkey Durkeys
Prize: $20,000
Student Founders: Sam Shapiro and Joe Shapiro
This innovative quick-service food concept features fried turkey fingers and stuffing
fries served from a fleet of vibrant food trucks.
Second place: MediRail
Prize: $10,000
Student Founder: Mitchell Mason
MediRail combines a medical backboard with an automated CPR device, reducing the time
that first responders spend preparing patients for transport.
Third place: PuzzLove
Prize: $5,000
Student Founder: Kamryn Huggins
PuzzLove supports the autism community through innovative products, including the
Shoe Sleeve, a device designed to make shoes more comfortable for children with autism.
Competition recap
Contact Us
Fahimeh Abbasi
Director, Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute
2230 Business Education Complex South
fahimabbasi@lsu.edu