Fuel the Future: Support Student Entrepreneurs at Rio Salado College
At Rio Salado College, we believe bold ideas can spark real change— and our students are already proving it. Through two innovative programs—the StartUp Sprint and the Small Business Pitch Competition— we’re helping students take their business dreams from concept to reality. With your support, we can do even more.
Empowering Entrepreneurs, One Venture at a Time
StartUp Sprint
Designed as a launchpad for early-stage entrepreneurs, StartUp Sprint provides students with mentorship, resources, and financial support to officially establish their businesses. From filing LLC paperwork to crafting a business plan, this 30-day sprint helps students take their first big steps into the world of business ownership.
Small Business Pitch Competition
This dynamic event gives students and recent alumni the chance to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges and win seed funding. It’s more than a competition— it’s a celebration of innovation and perseverance. Finalists receive funding to cover real business expenses like website development, legal fees, and marketing support.
Why Your Support Matters
These programs do more than develop business skills—they cultivate confidence, independence, and long-term career pathways. For many of our students, especially those balancing work, school, and family responsibilities, the opportunity to launch a business means the chance to build a life on their own terms.
Your donation helps fund:
- Start-up reimbursements for business formation (LLC, EIN, licenses)
- Microgrants for pitch competition winners
- Mentorship and training resources
- Program growth to reach more aspiring student entrepreneurs
Meet Our Student Founders
Maya Mack – Cornhusker Cleaning, LLC
After relocating with her family, Maya launched a full-service cleaning company to build stability and independence—earning top honors in our Spring 2024 pitch competition.
Shaniqua Hopkins – 7th Dream Helping Hearts
Founder of a nonprofit supporting pregnant and parenting teens, Shaniqua shows her students what’s possible by modeling courage, commitment, and lifelong learning.
Contact Information
Dr. Lily Davidov
Faculty Chair, Accounting and Small Business
(480) 517-8214
[email protected]