2024 Frank and Ellen Daveler Entrepreneurship Program
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE DAVELER Entrepreneurship PROGRAM?
The Daveler Program is °®¶¹´«Ã½â€™s premier statewide pitch competition—where top student entrepreneurs from across the state come together to showcase bold ideas and groundbreaking ventures.
Our mission is to:
- Inspire students to launch new businesses
- Build valuable entrepreneurial and business skills
- Connect participants with successful entrepreneurial leaders
- Provide guidance from experienced mentors
- Equip students with essential knowledge in their chosen fields
As a Daveler Fellow, you’ll present your business concept to a panel of accomplished entrepreneurs and educators, who will evaluate your innovation, creativity, and potential for impact.
Cash Prizes
$5,000 for Scholars
$3,000 for Fellows
This is your chance to test your vision, gain powerful connections, and take your business to the next level.
AM I ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
All undergraduate students currently enrolled in a college or university within the state of °®¶¹´«Ã½ are eligible to apply—regardless of major. Whether you’re studying engineering, arts, sciences, or business, the Daveler Program welcomes students from every discipline to showcase their entrepreneurial ideas and bring innovative ventures to life.
WHAT IF I AM NOT A BUSINESS MAJOR?
While business majors often excel in these competitions, students from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply. The Daveler Program is designed to help every participant cultivate entrepreneurial skills that create real-world impact. No matter your background, you’ll gain the mindset that defines successful entrepreneurs—creativity, innovation, and the ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles.
WHAT IS THE Pitch Comprised of?
This competition consists of a 7-minute pitch of your business concept, followed by a 3-minute Q&A session with the judges. Presentations must be created in Microsoft PowerPoint (Google Slides will not be accepted). Winners will be selected by the judging panel based on the quality and impact of their presentations.
A strong pitch should:
- Clearly define an unmet business need
- Present an innovative solution to address the challenge
- Show how your idea will positively impact customers and the community
- Demonstrate a clear business model (how it works and how it can grow)
- Highlight your competitive advantage and what sets your idea apart
- Share any traction, progress, or milestones you’ve already achieved
- End with a compelling call to action that leaves judges confident in your vision
Your challenge is to convey the importance of your concept in a compelling, actionable, and memorable way.
For more information about the program, contact program coordinator Frank Nunez at fnunez2@usf.edu