ATHERTON, CA – In an event connecting classroom innovation with real-world expertise, the Menlo College community gathered to support its most ambitious student-athlete and student entrepreneurs alike as they presented their ventures to a panel of judges at the inaugural Menlo Startup Pitch Competition earlier this month.

The competition marked the launch of a new annual spring initiative designed to expand opportunities for student innovation and entrepreneurship. After 10 teams were selected for coaching by Professor Dariush Rafinejad and Dean's Advisory Council member David Epstein, five advanced to present a distinguished judging panel featuring alumni Andy Ogawa '93, Anupam Awasthi '94, Sam Thapaliya '20, and Menlo trustee Kathy Jackson.

Competitors pitched ideas, products, and services ranging from early concepts to revenue-generating ventures across multiple industries, working to solve real-world problems and communicate compelling business strategies. Bringing the community together to connect and continue the conversation, the event concluded with a networking reception.

Student-athletes, who demonstrated creativity, teamwork, and professionalism, could be found among the top three team placements with Danica Kelley of Women's Wrestling contributing to the four-person group in second place and Angel Cody of Women's Tennis alongside two others in third place.

"This competition reflects the core of who we are at Menlo College," said Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School of Business Dr. Mouwafac Sidaoui. "Our students are not just learning. They are building, testing, and leading real ideas with confidence and ownership. Supported by faculty, engaged alumni, and our Silicon Valley ecosystem, they are challenged to execute at a high level. This is our DNA; applied, connected, and forward-looking. At Menlo, we develop individuals who are ready to create value from day one for organizations and for society."

Furthering the foundational collaborative opportunity among alumni, students, faculty, advisory board members, and industry partners, the Menlo Startup Pitch Competition highlighted Menlo's commitment to experiential learning and preparing students for success in a dynamic business environment.