Annual Regional Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad Competition Continues to be Successful

Annual Regional Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad Competition Continues to be Successful

Nov 8, 2024 8:15 AM

The 2^nd Annual Regional Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad competition, hosted by Frostburg State University Nov. 1-3, proved once again to be a successful event that allowed competing teams of students to conduct market research to create commercially viable solutions and new technologies to solve difficult issues.

More than 80 attendees from over 20 unique majors came together to put their technical and entrepreneurial skills to the test as they worked through problem statements related to this year's theme - Revive & Thrive: Reimagining Rural Resilience. The event wrapped with 54 participants working tirelessly to develop solutions that could help revitalize rural areas like Western Maryland and contribute to society's progress.

"This was more than an event; it was a platform for students to apply their classroom learning to real-world problems, collaborating across disciplines to drive impactful change," said Dr. Michael Flinn, professor and chair of FSU's Department of Computer Science and Information Technologies and Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad organizer.

Flinn noted that this year's theme encouraged creative, collaborative approaches to addressing challenges unique to communities like those in Western Maryland. With thirteen subject matter experts guiding the way, participants applied classroom knowledge to solve real issues, learning about everything from technology innovation to sustainability practices.

The winning team, Growth Mindset, was awarded a cash prize of $2,500 to support further exploration and development of their solution. Team members included William Malley, Lucian Rectanus, Sammy Baunoch and Madison Hooper. Coming in 2^nd place was team Sharefull, earning a $1,500 prize, followed by team Local Link in 3^rd and earning $1,000. Sharefull team members included Dean Kuiate, Hailie Toro, Rhett Belcher and Spencer Mitchell. Local Link team members included Antonio Rainey, Rommel Gouala, Nathan Schoffstall, William Jackson and Amanda Hawbecker. Additionally, all participating teams gained access to a network of experienced professionals with the knowledge and connections to help them take their ideas to the next level.

"Thank you to everyone who joined us on this journey toward innovation and collective problem-solving," said Flinn.

Partners of the Bobcat Innovation Launch Pad include Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII), the University System of Maryland's Launch Fund, TEDCO and FSU.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a sponsor for next year's competition should contact Jennifer Walsh, [email protected], or Dr. Flinn, [email protected].