Next Generation of Entrepreneurs Showcased at Annual Bulldog Pitch Competition

Excitement, energy and a record-breaking number of ideas filled the Student Center ballroom at Bowie State University as more than 600 students, faculty, alumni and supporters gathered in person and online for the annual Bulldog Pitch Competition, presented by the Entrepreneurship Innovation Center (EIC).

The finals of the ninth annual Shark Tank-style event on April 30 brought nine student-led ventures to the stage to compete for a share of $30,000 in prize funding to advance innovation and entrepreneurship.

Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux welcomed guests, including 30 high school students who traveled from New York, as she emphasized experiential learning and real-world business development.

"The Pitch Competition is more than an event. It's a powerful reflection of what happens when vision meets opportunity. It speaks directly to Bowie State's commitment to student success, innovation and preparing our students to lead and thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy."

Undergraduate and graduate finalists represented a broad range of academic disciplines and business stages, from early-stage concepts to operating ventures with demonstrated revenue.

Celebrity actress, entrepreneur and philanthropist Niatia "Lil Mama" Kirkland hosted the competition.

"My family and friends encouraged me to start a lip gloss business after my first hit song in 2008. My only investor was myself and my father. I'm fortunate that he raised our family with the ability to take what we know and apply it to the world around us. If there's something that dwells in your spirit, it doesn't matter if someone else can't see the vision. Go for it and never give up on yourself."

Johnetta Hardy, executive director and founder of the EIC, said this year's finalists demonstrated the creativity and resilience of Bowie State students and the growing campus interest in entrepreneurship when vision aligns with opportunity.

"This competition helps students move ideas into the real world. These projects demonstrate how students apply classroom knowledge to build ventures."

The 2026 competition marked a record-breaking year, with students submitting more than 60 applications from across the university. Finalists competed in three tracks, including a revenue-generating category that featured ventures already in operation and focused on growth.

Student entrepreneurs pitched their businesses to a panel of judges from government, corporate and nonprofit sectors, including representatives from Wells Fargo, FanDuel, Verizon, T. Rowe Price, the DC Fashion Foundation, Venture 4 T.H.E.M. and Bowie State.

Kelly MitchelI, executive director of the White House Initiative on HBCUs, said it was an honor to participate as a judge.

"This was my first time, and I will definitely be back. The competition was full of high energy, and I want to encourage student entrepreneurs to continue striving for what they believe in. It's very important for our young people to get involved in bringing their idea to fruition."

Natalyeah Hinds won second place for her after-school incentive program that helps students experience career exploration.

"As a graduate student, I've worked so hard, putting in sleepless nights. So to win this recognition means so much to me."

Corporate support was provided by the Blackstone LaunchPad Foundation, FanDuel, Verizon, and the HBCU and PNC Mid-South Regional Center for Entrepreneurship.

Hardy ended the three-hour program by urging attendees to reflect on the day's impact.

"You're helping us build a thriving ecosystem at BSU. Believe in what we're building together and how we're shaping the future."

Winners

Non-Tech

First: Beyond HBCU Life - Widenerson Moise ($4000)

Second: P.O.W.E.R. - Natalyeah Hinds ($2000)

Third: Passion Scott - PrettyBIGThing ($1000)

Tech and Innovation

First: Stanley Ogbumuo - SwiftEVV ($4000)

Second: Selena Guthrie - ClarityBridge ($2000)

Third: Efe Ahworegba - Padisave ($1000)

Revenue Non-Tech

First: Communicat8 It - Carolyn Alston ($8000)

Second: Santana Pleasant - The Blade ($5000)

Third: Rafaa Sait - Refaa Sweets ($2500)

Crowd Favorite

Refaa Sweets: Rafaa Sait ($500)