Innovation and entrepreneurial competition powered by AT&T
The Fredonia Technology Incubator (FTI) is launching a business competition for students at Fredonia. The competition will provide students the opportunity to submit a business proposal and compete for admittance into FTI and other prizes.The competition complements other student-based entrepreneurial initiatives in Western New York and is being powered by AT&T.
“We have very talented entrepreneurs at our university and this competition will provide our students with a direct pathway to starting a business,” said Incubator Director Chuck Cornell. “This competition also will promote retention of talent in our community. I am grateful to AT&T for their support of this endeavor and for the company’s continued involvement in spurring and fostering local innovation and entrepreneurialism on our campus and across the region.”
“AT&T is proud to participate with Fredonia and its Tech Incubator in this business competition, providing young entrepreneurs the opportunity to hone their products and services with support and guidance from seasoned mentors,” said Marissa Shorenstein, New York president, AT&T. “Our continued investment in a robust mobile network as well as our activities with local organizations working to foster the resurgence of the local economy through technological innovation is evidence of our continued support of Western New York.”
The competition is designed to help student entrepreneurs present business ideas, develop proposals, receive guidance from experienced business mentors, and launch their businesses.The winner of the competition earns an office at the incubator for one year, powered by AT&T, including access to all FTI programming and services.The winner and second and third place finishers will also receive cash prizes. The competition is open to Fredonia students from all academic disciplines.To apply, students should visit www.fredonia.edu/incubator under the competition tab for more details.The application deadline is Feb.10, 2016.
“I believe this competition will add value to what Fredonia currently offers to its students,” said Fredonia student and FTI intern Matt Philipson. “I have seen firsthand how the programmatic support provided at FTI helps entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into successful startup companies. I look forward to seeing additional student startups at the incubator.”
Initial planning for the Student Business Competition and other student-based initiatives at FTI was supported by a student team enrolled in Fredonia’s Strategic Management capstone course instructed by Dr. Susan McNamara of the School of Business.
Located in the City of Dunkirk’s central business district, the Fredonia Technology Incubator promotes economic growth in Western New York by supporting entrepreneurship and the development of new, innovative companies into successful business ventures.The incubator provides business services, support, networking, and educational opportunities for startup businesses.The Incubator also provides internships and training opportunities for students, attracts and retains college graduates in the area, and provides support services to community organizations and leaders. FTI is housed within Fredonia’s Division of Engagement and Economic Development (EED) which oversees the university’s economic development programs, including StartUp NY.
