ABERDEEN, S.D.(Hub City Radio)-
Northern State’s 2026 Idea Pitch competition was held Thursday night at the new NSU’s Innovation and Startup Center.
The five finalists were the following:
- Kenan Davis: Sunday South – Elevated Southern Brunch
- John Ellis, Maggie Kruger, Fan Zhang and Jason Sazue: A Film/Podcast/Media Club
- Blake Stoks: Sweet Chillz
- Ryder Vrchota: Vrchota Property Management
- Katrina Holzkamm: Hometown Hidden Gems
The winner was Ryder Vrchota with Vrchota Property Mangement. He talked about how this concept came about.
Vrchota told the judges during his presentation the mission of his business.
Vrchota told the judges how much he would look to get from residents of those properties.
Vrchota also told the judges how much it would cost to get the business started.
Vrchota talked about how much support he’s getting from his parents.
First prize was $500. Vrchota also won a People Choice Award for Most Feasible that was a $50 award.
Second prize worth $250 went to Kenon Davis with Sunday South.
Third prize worth $100 went to Blake Stoks with Sweet Chillz.
Other People Choice Award winner($50 award):
Most Creative- Sweet Chillz
Greatest Need- Hometown Hidden Gems