PNW announces ‘Big Sell’ pitch competition winners

The PNW Big Sell winners (from L-R) Courtney Stern, Luis Alvear, and Jannice Newson (photo courtesy: PNW)

Purdue University Northwest has awarded $14,000 in prizes to the top three winners in the PNW Big Sell pitch competition. Twelve entrepreneurs competed for top honors by presenting their products during a six-minute-long pitch.

The $10,000 first prize went to Jannice Newson and her business Lillian Augusta, a plant-based hair extension company. Newson co-founded Lillian Augusta with Nana Britwum with the goal of providing synthetic, biodegradable hair braid extensions for Black women that are comfortable and sustainable for the environment.

Luis Alvear earned second place and $3,000 for his startup, AtoB. The software platform seeks to pair carpool drivers and passengers. Alvear is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from PNW this spring.

Courtney Stern took home third place and $1,000 for her app, Park Watch. The technology helps drivers find urban on-street parking by fostering a community of motorists, who can share spots with each other based on their schedules in advance or in real-time.

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