It almost sounds like an open mic night at a coffee shop: where Vanderbilt students gather in a classroom to try out new material. But students aren’t testing jokes or reading poetry — instead, they’re pitching business ideas.

A fixture of Owen programming for more than a decade, the FireStarter sessions provide a low-pressure environment where students can pitch their early-stage startup ideas. Students walk through their concept for five minutes, followed by another five minutes of Q&A. Judges from the Nashville entrepreneur community provide feedback.

Each session, the judges select a winner, who receives a gift card of $500. However, the real value comes from getting feedback early in the startup process, before students have invested too much time and energy into the idea.

What:  Pitch a business concept to investor panelists

When:  Monday, April 19th at 5:30 PM

Where:  Via Zoom – pre-registration is required to present

Pre-registration is required to pitch your concept. Contact Dr. Michael Burcham at michael.r.burcham@vanderbilt.edu if you’re interested in pitching your business idea. Registration is limited to five participants/groups.