Gavin Vondercrone
Editor-in-Chief
(The following is an official press release for the Warrior Startup Challenge provided to the Courier courtesy of Michael Moreno)
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. – East Stroudsburg University’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Center (ELC) is calling on all student innovators to take the first step toward launching their business ideas. Round 1 of the 2025–2026 Warrior Startup Challenge is officially underway, with video submissions due by midnight on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
The Warrior Startup Challenge gives ESU students the chance to transform a business concept into a real-world venture while competing for $17,500 in cash and in-kind prizes, including $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second place, and $2,500 for third place.
Round 1 focuses on the Two-Minute Video Pitch, where students introduce themselves and their business idea. This short video is the gateway to the competition and an opportunity to explain the concept, highlight its value, and show why it stands out.
Video submissions must include:
• Full name
• Major and Concentration
• Class standing
Students should also answer the following questions:
1. What is the name of your business or business idea?
2. What is your business or business idea? (features, concepts, services, etc.)
3. What problem(s) or need(s) are you addressing?
4. How are you solving that problem or need?
5. Who are your customers?
6. How will your business or business idea generate revenue?
Videos must be no longer than two minutes, submitted in MP4 format, and uploaded at https://www.esu.edu/entrepreneurship/students/video-submission.cfm.
“This challenge is an incredible opportunity for any ESU student, no matter their major, to explore entrepreneurship in a hands-on way,” said Michael Moreno, Manager of the Entrepreneurial Leadership Center. “You don’t need to be a business major to have a great idea. What matters is curiosity, creativity, and the willingness to take that first step.”
The competition is open to all matriculated undergraduate and graduate students enrolled full- or part-time at ESU during the Fall 2025 semester. Both for-profit and not-for-profit ideas are welcome. Participants must own the intellectual property related to their idea, and businesses that have already started may compete as long as they have not generated or received more than $10,000 in total revenue or funding.
Don’t wait — the November 16 deadline is approaching fast.
For full details, visit https://www.esu.edu/entrepreneurship/students/warrior-businesschallenge.cfm.
For more information about the Warrior Startup Challenge – Business Plan Competition, please contact Michael Moreno, Manager of the Entrepreneurial Leadership Center, at mmoreno4@esu.edu or 570-422-7995.
