Keiser University Lakeland campus student Mark Cartagena is now one step closer to bringing his idea to the market, thanks to Keiser University’s ‘Seahawk Tank’ Pitch Contest.

 

The Information Technology program student who invented ‘Request Link’ software designed to provide small businesses with the low-cost capability to accept online orders took home $4,500 for his idea and business plan as part of the contest.

 

“Mark has been very self-motivated with his project, and it has been a privilege to help guide him toward his success with the contest and beyond. His idea and vision are truly unique, and his effort and drive will serve him and any future employer well. The worlds of information technology and business go together like hand and glove, and Mark is proof of the concept,” said John Hines, Keiser University Lakeland campus’ Internet Technology Department Chair.

 

This year held virtually due to the coronavirus disease, the competition provided students the opportunity to see their business goals and inventions come to life by providing the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of industry judges in hopes of winning cash prizes.

 

The fourth annual event welcomed eight budding entrepreneurs from several Keiser University campuses. Additional winners included:

 

  • 2nd Place: Zachary Miller and Donte Johnson, Flagship Campus – xSauced

xSauced is an online luxury shoe rental service that targets “sneaker-heads,” a fast-growing rental consumer market for fashionable high-end sneakers.

 

  • 3rd Place: Emma Bergsell and Marko Radulovic, Flagship Campus – Bottles for Life

 

Bottles for Life is a socially conscious manufacturer of high-quality water bottles with caps that come in seven different colors, each representing a specific charitable foundation.

 

  • 4th Place: LeAndra Caven, Port St. Lucie Campus – Rise Above Elevator

 

Rise Above Elevator, a new Treasure Coast company that installs, maintains and repairs custom and smart elevators, typically in office buildings and high-end residences.

 

Keiser University thanks The Keiser Mills Foundation and an anonymous donor for their support. The remaining four contestants each received $250. To learn more about Keiser University’s Bachelor of Business Degree in Entrepreneurship please click here.

Ku Lakeland Campus Pitch Contest Winner Mark Cartenega 4 1 20 - Keiser University Seahawk Tank Pitch Contest Places Student One-step Closer To Career Goals - Seahawk Nation