Three UMaine students win scholarship prizes in first ever ‘Shark Tank’ event

The Maine Business School announced the winners of its inaugural “Shark Tank” event on Dec. 13,  in which first-year students pitched ideas for side hustles in a competition that evoked the TV show of the same name.

Six students took center stage at the event, sharing their innovative ideas to a panel of judges and vying for scholarship prizes. From solving local childcare shortages to offering personalized blankets and international snacks, these budding entrepreneurs demonstrated creativity, business acumen and a passion for addressing real-world challenges.

The first place finisher was Colleen Thamsen of St. Agatha, Maine, who is studying finance and management. Thamsen’s business pitch was CM Childcare Services, which would offer flexible and affordable childcare options in the Fort Kent area. The business would offer transportation to events, practices and outings, and overnight and evening care would also be available.

In second place, Marcus McLain from Falmouth, Maine, a business administration major in finance who is also a part of the Honors College, pitched Custom Coziness. The business offers fully customizable, high-quality blankets to help customers personalize their spaces during the colder months. McLain would leverage his experience in international commerce to ensure positive relationships with manufacturers and customers. 

Nastassja DeLoge, a computer science and business major from Bath, Maine, placed third for her pitch: Nastassja DeLoge Media Design & Branding. The company would help businesses thrive by creating authentic brand identities that connect with their audiences. With five years of experience in professional photography, DeLoge would offer various services, including brand strategy, website design, marketing campaigns and branding photography.

The other three finalists included Nevaeh Bartlett from Shapleigh, Maine, a business administration major in accounting and finance who is also in the Honors College; Colton Flaherty from Franklin, Massachusetts who is studying finance; and business administration major in finance and management Hallie Taunton from Saratoga Springs, New York.

Read the full story online from the Maine Business School.