Application Period Open for UW’s 27th Annual John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition

Applications are now open for the University of Wyoming’s 27th annual John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition, where student teams will compete for more than $70,000 in prize money.

The competition encourages college students across Wyoming to pursue their own business ideas and contribute to the state’s economic environment. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4.

UW students at the undergraduate and graduate levels are invited to compete for more than $70,000 in cash prizes to help further develop their businesses. The competition, in partnership with the Ellbogen Foundation, strives to support economic development in Wyoming through student entrepreneurship.

“Entrepreneurship is about taking an idea and figuring out how to turn it into something real,” says Sarah Drewry, entrepreneurship and venture initiatives coordinator at the College of Business. “This competition gives students the opportunity to test their ideas, learn from experienced entrepreneurs and build the skills they need to take the next step. We want students to see entrepreneurship as a path they can pursue here in Wyoming.”

The competition features three rounds. Round one will include an executive summary and a virtual elevator pitch. Teams selected to advance to round two will submit a written business concept and deliver an in-person pitch. Finalists will advance to the third round, which will include the final presentations Thursday, April 22, 2027.

In addition to monetary prizes, teams in the third round will be paired with experienced mentors and attend workshops to refine their business models, marketing strategies and financial plans.

Last year, five teams competed in the final round, with MotoMotion taking first place and $24,000. Founded by two UW students and active dirt bike racers, MotoMotion develops products designed to make hauling dirt bikes easier, safer and more efficient.

Teams interested in competing should apply at www.ellbogen50k.org/apply.

For more information, email entr@uwyo.edu.