Innovative Ideas Take Center Stage at University’s Business Expo

When Giaan Nguyen ’27 and her teammates first brainstormed their business idea, they had a simple goal: to help animals stay safe in extreme temperatures. What began as a response to the issue of children being left in hot cars evolved into a dynamic solution for pet owners—an adaptable vest that regulates temperature for pets in all weather conditions.

"Our business was mainly based on the health of animals," said Nguyen, a finance and financial analytics major. "At first, we focused on cooling pets on hot days, but with the rise of extreme cold weather, we adapted our design to work in both conditions."

Nguyen and her team—Jazira Faines ’28, Brian Victoria ’26, and Daphne King ’27—competed against teams from across the University. Their company, Pets on Wheels (POW), took home first place in the live pitch competition, earning them the coveted Pompea Cup.

The BUSA1000 EXPO is the culmination of the University’s Introduction to Business and Entrepreneurship course, where students develop and present business ideas in a real-world setting.

"The course is designed to help students develop a compelling entrepreneurial idea and collaborate on a professional, team-based business presentation," said Vasiliki Kosmidou, Ph.D., Smerd Family Associate Professor in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. "Through this experience, students build essential business skills such as creativity, teamwork, and public speaking—skills crucial for success in today’s business world."

‘There were so many factors to consider’

Dr. Kosmidou, who helped organize the competition, was particularly inspired by the enthusiasm of the students. "What impressed me most this year was the remarkable level of passion and confidence they displayed, especially considering that most of them were first-year students in their very first semester of college," she said.

For Nguyen, the competition provided an opportunity to refine their business idea and sharpen their entrepreneurial mindsets. "The most challenging aspect was figuring out the financials of the business plan. There were so many factors to consider, and the time constraints made it stressful," she said.

Faines, a hospitality and tourism management major, credited her love for animals as the driving force behind the idea. "I have five animals at home, all adopted from bad circumstances,” she said. “I kept thinking that our invention could help pets in dangerous conditions.

"This experience made me realize that looking or sounding like a business professional isn’t always the only approach,” Faines continued. “We wanted a true connection with the audience and judges, so we focused on a more natural and engaging pitch."

‘This project gave me a glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship’

The BUSA1000 EXPO wasn’t just about competition; it was an opportunity for students to develop confidence and explore their entrepreneurial potential. "Participating in this project gave me a glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship," said Victoria, an accounting major. "It definitely piqued my interest."

Victoria and his teammates initially considered using a heating and cooling gel in their vest but pivoted to a more advanced design after further research. "We completely scrapped the gel idea and opted for a design with fans for cooling and coils for heating," he said.

"It was difficult to pinpoint exactly who our customer base would be, but through teamwork and research, we identified a sustainable market."

The team also received valuable feedback from the judges and faculty members, particularly regarding the feasibility of their battery-powered vest. "Some faculty members raised concerns about battery life, which is something we’ll need to address in future development," said Nguyen. "That feedback will help us improve our business plan."

‘Presenting helped me learn new communication and presentation skills’

The success of the BUSA1000 EXPO is ultimately about preparing students for the realities of the business world. "Participating in BUSA1000 and the EXPO event offers tremendous value to our students," said Dr. Kosmidou. "They enhance their communication skills, build confidence, and gain invaluable mentorship and exposure to the mindset of investors."

For the Pets on Wheels team, the experience was transformative. "Presenting at the EXPO helped me learn new communication and presentation skills," said Nguyen. "It influenced my interest in entrepreneurship and taught me how to deliver a professional pitch."

As these students continue to develop their entrepreneurial skills, the lessons learned from the BUSA1000 EXPO will serve as a foundation for future success. "I am incredibly proud to have been a part of their learning journey," said Dr. Kosmidou. "I can’t wait to see where their ideas take them next."