On March 1, 2025, the Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) Collegiate Pitch competition showcased the innovative talent emerging from Kentucky's universities, with University of Kentucky (UK) Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE) Bootcamp teams making a notable impression. VACE played a key role in preparing the Bootcamp teams for the competition. Five Bootcamp startups were selected to compete in the 2025 GSE Collegiate Pitch: DocAI, PRLZ Extracts, RAM Devices, NeuroVista, and HandyHat. The annual Collegiate Pitch competition, held at Thomas More University, provides a platform for student entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to a panel of judges, vying for crucial funding. This year's event featured a diverse array of concepts. GSE aims to foster entrepreneurship and drive economic growth in Kentucky by supporting student-led ventures. competition provides valuable feedback, connections, and funding opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The competition is divided into two tracks: the Exploratory Track for early-stage ideas and the Developed Track for more advanced ventures. This structure allows for a wide range of entrepreneurial projects to be showcased.
Prizes and Impact:
A total prize pool of $44,000 was awarded to the top placing teams, enabling them to further develop their businesses. The competition encourages students to establish and grow their businesses within Kentucky. The GSE Collegiate Pitch competition is a testament to the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kentucky. It provides a vital platform for students to transform their innovative ideas into viable businesses. The success of the University of Kentucky bootcamp teams highlights the university's commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent.
Winning Teams
Developed Track Winners
First: Nuks Nootropics, University of Louisville - $15,000
Nicotine-free energy pouches with brain-boosting ingredients to combat fatigue and mental fog.
Joe Crepps CEO, Tim Filliatreau, COO, Gerdhaus Olde Loohuis CTO
Second: Jet Ski 502, University of Louisville - $7,000
Jet ski rentals providing access to more water recreation options in urban areas.
Golden Mashindi CEO, Arnold Moto CTO
Third (Tie): RAM Devices, University of Kentucky - $5,000
A wearable sensor-based device revolutionizing stroke rehabilitation with intuitive, real-time feedback on hand movement.
Madison Bates, Founder
Third (Tie): Due Gooder, University of Louisville - $5,000
An app that uses AI to pull information and sync with a calendar to improve organization and time management.
Nate Royal, Founder
Exploratory Track Winners
First: G&E Solutions, University of Louisville - $5,000
A sanitary portable shower for communities with no plumbing or electricity.
Emmanuel Haynes and Golden Mashindi, Co-Founders
Second: HandyHat, University of Kentucky - $4,000
Headwear with a magnetic bill to hold small metal hardware while working.
Wyatt Hench, Founder
Third: PRLZ Extracts, University of Kentucky - $3,000
Producing all-natural, solventless cannabis options packaged in standard doses.
Eli Gersony, Avery Nelson, Venkatesh Suryadevara, Co-Founders
Questions? Contact:
Governor's School for Entrepreneurs
Phone: (502) 592-0520
Email: info@KentuckyGSE.com