CIE Student Stories

My first real exposure to entrepreneurism was my dad. He founded a successful software startup when I was growing up, so entrepreneurism became second nature to me. In high school, I began building longboards alongside my best friend, Peter Hudlicky. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a business. When I came to Champlain, the BYOBiz* helped me build Pure Investments, a business that I pitched in LaunchVT competitions.

BYOBiz* is a growing community of entrepreneurs. The program offers the ability to collaborate with other like-minded individuals on campus, and provide a space for them to work together. At least once a month, a guest speaker-usually a business owner from the Burlington area-will come and talk about their experience in the field of entrepreneurism. 

BYOBiz* also hosts events such as the Elevator Pitch and the Champlain branch of LaunchVT.

An entrepreneurial mindset does not necessarily mean you need to go out, abandon your career, and start a business. The mindset of an entrepreneur can be utilized in a corporate setting just as much as in your own startup. Entrepreneurism within a company is often referred to as "intrapreneurism," and it's just as valuable a skill.

In my sophomore year, I competed in LaunchVT Champlain College and placed first while pitching Pure Investments. My business partner and I then went on to compete in LaunchVT Collegiate and placed third. I also went on to compete in LaunchVT again during my junior year with an idea for a creator-driven stock photo website.

An entrepreneurial mindset does not necessarily mean you need to go out, abandon your career, and start a business. The mindset of an entrepreneur can be utilized in a corporate setting just as much as in your own startup. Entrepreneurism within a company is often referred to as "intrapreneurism," and it's just as valuable a skill.

Burlington has so many resources for young and aspiring entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurial community within Burlington is so strong-places like the Vermont Center for Emerging Technology offer an amazing community of startup and small business owners all in one tight-knit coworking space.

And while people might not know this, Champlain College was originally founded as the Burlington Business School. The entrepreneurial roots here run deep.

Since I've joined BYOBiz*, I've had nothing but positive experiences. With guidance and advice from several professionals, I competed in several competitions and won money to fund my passion. I've been able to make connections outside of Champlain College from the help I've received.

Because of BYOBiz*, I have been able to have access to different resources. I've been getting great deals with an IP attorney, I've had a professional help me with a press release, and I've gotten in contact with local businesses. I've been able to foster my abilities and become a more confident presenter; I feel that I can bring my ideas to a table of professionals and have the power to back my stance, and the persuasion to convince people of my opinion.

I have learned how to talk to law professionals, connect with local businesses, give better presentations, and pitch ideas. BYOBiz has helped me find ways of getting funds, and helped establish my LLC. I feel confident that I can take the next steps in my business after Champlain College.

After Emily returned home, she taught herself about clothing design and sewing, then developed and tested her first prototypes. She began developing her brand, Saturday Swimwear, along with a website and social media presence using skills learned from her advanced marketing class. She joined BYOBiz* in the fall of her senior year and worked to complete her launch strategy, including pricing, production and distribution, financial projections, incorporation and IP protection. With encouragement received from BYOBiz, Emily sought and achieved her first retail accounts.

She also competed in the Elevator Pitch, LaunchVT Collegiate, and was a finalist in the nationwide Draper Competition for Collegiate Women Entrepreneurs. Following her graduation, Emily planned to continue developing her business while also working at Fuse Marketing.