Whitman team wins New Ventures World Competition

Whitman team wins New Ventures World CompetitionApril 15, 2008Amy Schmitzaemehrin@syr.edu

Whitman School of Management undergraduate students Greg Ackerman, Rachel Baumann, Michelle Caruso, and Jaclyn Casavant traveled to Nebraska April 10-12 and came home victorious, winning first place for their business concept “BSApp” at the 21st Annual New Ventures World Competition, hosted by the University of Nebraska.

“The New Ventures World Competition is the most prestigious competition of its kind,” says Neil Tarallo, assistant professor of entrepreneurship in the Whitman School and faculty advisor to the team. “BSApp dominated the other teams, including teams from Ivy League schools and many other highly regarded schools from around the globe. They clearly showed a mastery of all they have learned at Whitman. This is a great accomplishment for the team and for the school — it’s the first time a Whitman team has won first place in this competition.”

Team BSApp developed a service that coordinates, facilitates and enhances the graduate management admissions process by offering a one-stop online location for submitting applications. The team won $4,000 and will continue to develop their business plan for future competitions and the marketplace.

The Whitman School has a history of faring well at the New Ventures World Competition. In 2007, logMedia took third place; in 2006, Fresh Cut Florals took second place.