First-year students to pitch side hustle projects in ‘Shark Tank’ event
After spending an entire semester developing an idea for and starting a business, first-year students from the University of Maine will jump into the “Shark Tank” on Friday, Dec.13.
The Maine Business School is hosting a “Shark Tank” event — which will evoke the TV show of the same name — at 11 a.m. in room 102 in Murray Hall. During the competition, students will present their side hustle projects to a panel of judges, university leaders and their peers. The contest is part of the semester-long Introduction to Business course.
“This event is all about bringing students together to share their stories and highlight the amazing work they’ve accomplished through their side hustle projects,” said Jason Harkins, executive dean and associate professor of entrepreneurship at the Maine Business School. “At its core, a pitch is really about communication. Employers consistently tell us that strong communication — both written and spoken — is one of the most valuable skills in business. What better way to build those skills than by giving students a platform to engage in this work?”
About 300 students have been placed into 17 cohorts for the contest. Those groups chose one student to present during the semi-final round. From there, six pitches were chosen to move forward to the final round and compete for the first, second, and third place prizes. The top scholarship prizes for the pitches are $1,000 for first place, $750 for second and $500 for third.
“This event, while exciting, will be nerve-wracking for the students participating,” Harkins said. “To get up and confidently present for 3 minutes in front of judges, university leaders, and their peers will be quite an intense experience.”
Finalist side hustles range from marketing and childcare services to personalized blankets and international snacks.
“Participating in the ‘Shark Tank’ experience has been a transformative opportunity for my personal and professional growth,” said Nastassja DeLoge, a first-year student from Bath, Maine. “It has tested my ability to think under pressure, refine my public speaking skills and deliver business pitches with clarity and confidence.”
The panel of judges will include Patrick Breeding, the co-founder of Marin Skincare; Emalee Hall, the assistant director of innovation programming and partnerships for Dirigo Labs; and Gavin Robinson, vice president and community relations manager for Bangor Savings Bank.
“All three of these individuals have deep expertise in the innovation field and represent the different areas of the state,” said Harkins.
The introductory business course is one of many Research Learning Experiences (RLEs) offered across the University of Maine System, through which students engage in research at the start of their college career. RLEs, part of the student success and retention project, are made possible through UMS TRANSFORMS, a multi-year, System-wide initiative supported by a $320 million commitment from the Harold Alfond Foundation.
Story by intern Luke O’Neil.
Contact: Melanie Brooks, melanie.brooks@maine.edu