Ignite Institute

Peacock Pitch Competition 2023

Updated Monday 18, November 2024 by dbocchino

The Ignite Institute for Business Innovation completed its 9th annual Peacock Pitch (previously known as Shark Tank) at Mission 50 in Hoboken on April 12, 2023 with great success. “All participants did an extraordinary job and presented extremely well. I was extremely proud with their level of professionalism knowing that the majority are only freshman students. The process wasn’t easy for all of us but, in the end, it was a job well accomplished,” proclaimed Dr. Chanaz Gargouri, Director of the Ignite Institute.

Former KPMG Dean Mary Kate Naatus, a judge at the event, and Interim Dean John Hammett were both really impressed by the blend of goods and services represented among the student entrepreneurs and pitched to the judges, especially those with innovative components and designs.

According to Lily Arango from the host organization, Mission 50, “Saint Peter’s University Peacock Pitch was a great success. The students demonstrated professionalism, poise, and drive. The business ideas were well organized, true to each team’s passion, and socially conscious. Overall, I was impressed by the students, their entrepreneurship spirit, and their creativity. They should all be very proud of their hard work” Agreeing with everyone, our Guest Judge Dr. Sarah Vandermark added that the students presented their brands confidently, prepared and with enthusiasm and heart.

Their visions were well thought out and we were impressed with their vision of giving back to their communities and self conscience lens. I was honored to be a part of hearing these entrepreneurs’ business presentations and hope to be a part of this in the future.

  • 1st Place Award – Yette Cruz & Mikayla Carrillo ’26 $ 2,500
  • 2nd Place Award – Anthony Mastandrea’27 $1,500
  • Social Impact Award – Atrell Johnson ’26 $600
  • Audience Choice Award Yvette Cruz & Mikayla Carrillo ’27 $400
  • A Gift Card was awarded to Bradley Henry ’26 for Innovative Idea
  • A Gift Card was awarded to Madelyn Reyes Ruiz ’24 for creativity

The Ignite Institute and the Frank I. Guarini School of Business would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Mission 50 for supporting, hosting and funding the Entrepreneurship Program and to e-FEST for the generous grant.

Winners Yvette Cruz & Mikayla Carrillo will compete again on May 1″ at Mission 50 with the possibility of winning an award of $5000. A big thank you to this year’s panel of judges: Dr. Mary Kate Naatus, Mr. Carlos Gutierrez, and our special guest, Dr. Sarah Vandermark.