Sean Selback
News Editor
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) start-up event has rolled around again and is down to the final three contestants.
On April 3, ESU’s Diaa Meqdadi, senior computer science and computer security major, will enter the final stage against two other startups and compete for the first place prize of $10,000 to help fund his business idea.
“My mindset is one of determination and focus. I believe in the potential of our product to make a significant impact in the market and help businesses thrive in the digital age,” said Meqdadi. “I’m excited about the opportunity to showcase our innovative solutions, share our journey, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs and judges who understand the challenges and opportunities in the startup ecosystem.”
According to the PASSHE’s website, “The State System Startup Challenge is an opportunity for students attending one of the state-owned universities to compete for prize money of up to $10,000 for their innovative ideas. Winners receive prize money to assist in making their dreams of becoming an entrepreneur come true.”
This is not the first time a student of ESU has made it to the finals with a great chance at bringing home gold.
Just last year, in 2023, Stelios Melekos won the first place prize in the annual Startup Challenge sponsored by PASSHE. His business plan for Blitz Performance LLC, which provides anglers with lures and apparel for both saltwater and freshwater fishing, was awarded the $10,000 after a remarkable showing by Melekos in the finals.
However, this year, Meqdadi faces a unique challenge for his final presentation.
“I am not as concerned with my competition as I am with my pitch,” Meqdadi said. “However, I do find that their products are more digestible than my software, meaning I will have to work hard to make my pitch as concrete and concise as possible, so the judges can understand the potential and benefit of my software.”
Meqdadi’s start-up is based on developing innovative solutions for data management and digital marketing. Their flagship product is a no-code drag-and-drop customizable database API software, which simplifies data management for businesses of all sizes by allowing users to create and customize databases tailored to their unique needs.
Despite the challenge he faces, Meqdadi is confidently moving forward, and believes the skills he has acquired so far in the start-up challenge will only help him in the finals, and in the future with his business.
“I’m proud of myself for making it to the final competition, despite finding it very stressful. This stress mainly stems from being uncomfortable with tasks like pitching, presenting, and being on live TV, which are new to me. However, I see this as a positive challenge that will help me grow and learn from the outcome of the finals.” Meqdadi expressed. “I believe this experience has given me a better understanding of my business and the decisions I need to make moving forward.”
The results of the competition will be released on Wednesday, April 3. As a member of the last three, all the remaining contestants will receive money for their business. However, the $10,000 prize will only go to whoever comes in first place.
