The 11th annual Cross Tank Competition took place on Monday, March 25th, at Smith Labs 155, hosted by HC Launch through the Ciocca Center. This year showcased an array of pitches, highlighting fresh and innovative approaches to problem-solving. Ideas ranged from optimizing track and field distance tracking to unveiling a 100% waterproof fabric, an app for musicians to collaborate to, and more.
Our panel of judges brought a wealth of diverse expertise to the table, featuring 2022 winner Nick Lazzaro ’23, Venture Forum Executive Zak Dutton, and Adjunct Professor and Healthcare Executive Tom Patton ’86. Teams vied for a total prize pool of $9,250.
The competition unfolded in two categories. In the Concept Stage, participants presented business ideas poised for launch:
- First Place ($1,500):
Mark-it, a tailor-made product for track and field enthusiasts, providing precise markers for starting points in various field activities.
Students: Logan Mott ’27 and Skyler Mott (Leigh)
- Second Place ($1,000):
UniBite, a meal plan generator app collaborating with college campus dining halls to promote student well-being.
Student: Nico Corporon ’26
- Third Place ($500):
Soteria Textiles, pioneering waterproof fabric protection.
Students: Nico Popeleski ’26 and Bianca Ropeter ’26
In the Operational Stage, competitors presented strategic growth plans for established revenue-generating businesses:
- First Place ($3,500):
Trivflic, an app fostering a community around daily trivia questions.
Student: TJ Haigh ’26
- Second Place ($1,500):
That’s Yo Body, offering personalized training and merchandise to inspire and educate individuals.
Student: Josh Azor ’24
- Third Place ($1,000):
jestr, a hybrid social media app transforming social interaction into a humorous competition among friends.
Students: Ralph Carbone ’24 and David Brush ’24
Additionally, this year introduced the Audience Award, clinched by Mark-it, earning an additional $250!
Mark-it and Trivflic are set to compete in the upcoming WooTank Intercollegiate Showdown where they will compete against students from Clark University, College of the Holy Cross, Nichols College, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Join us for the event on Tuesday, April 2, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the BrickBox Theatre, located at 20 Franklin St., Worcester. We welcome members of the Holy Cross community to come and support both of our teams!
Register for WooTank on EventBrite.
