The Arena Pitch Competition

“The Arena was an intense but incredibly rewarding experience that taught me a lot about myself and helped me gain invaluable insights into my business. This competition challenged me to quickly refine my ideas and approach to pitching while receiving support and encouragement from the amazing team at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. With expert feedback and new connections made after every pitch, I was able to push myself and improve my ability to articulate my business vision week after week. Winning the competition was a pivotal moment that boosted the confidence I have in my business and motivated me and my team to keep striving for our long-term goals. And thanks to the $10,000 prize, we were able to take the next big steps to get there. To all the student entrepreneurs considering applying: I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap. The Arena will not only sharpen your pitching skills but will also set you on a path to success. The experience, connections, and knowledge you gain will continue to serve you well throughout your entire entrepreneurial journey. Embrace the challenge—your future self will thank you!”

“The Arena was an intense but incredibly rewarding experience that taught me a lot about myself and helped me gain invaluable insights into my business. This competition challenged me to quickly refine my ideas and approach to pitching while receiving support and encouragement from the amazing team at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. With expert feedback and new connections made after every pitch, I was able to push myself and improve my ability to articulate my business vision week after week. Winning the competition was a pivotal moment that boosted the confidence I have in my business and motivated me and my team to keep striving for our long-term goals. And thanks to the $10,000 prize, we were able to take the next big steps to get there. To all the student entrepreneurs considering applying: I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap. The Arena will not only sharpen your pitching skills but will also set you on a path to success. The experience, connections, and knowledge you gain will continue to serve you well throughout your entire entrepreneurial journey. Embrace the challenge—your future self will thank you!”

“Participating in The Arena Pitch 2024 was an unforgettable experience for both me and my co-founder, Amir. Securing second place for Swish, while competing against 64 incredible startups from 32 universities across Canada, was beyond rewarding. The feedback we received from the judges, especially Shannon Byrne Susko, was transformative—not only for our business but for us personally as founders. The entire process pushed us out of our comfort zone, helped us refine our pitch, and gave us the confidence to believe in our vision even more. For any student entrepreneur applying, I can't recommend The Arena enough—it’s an incredible platform to showcase your ideas, learn from others, and grow as a leader. Representing the University of Waterloo was an honor, and the connections and insights we gained will stay with us as we continue to build Swish.”

“The impact of winning The Arena competition on my life and career has been nothing short of remarkable. The $10,000 prize money served as a vital investment in my startup, allowing me to take significant steps towards realizing my entrepreneurial dreams. Moreover, the mentorship and guidance from business leaders and experts provided me with invaluable insights and connections that continue to shape my professional journey. To future contestants, I offer this advice: Believe in your idea and be prepared to put in the hard work. The Arena is a platform where innovation meets opportunity, and your dedication can make all the difference. Network, learn from others, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary. Embrace the feedback and challenges as steppingstones to success”.