VentureQuest 2026: Student-Entrepreneurs Shine

On April 16, Bow Valley College celebrated the 13th edition of VentureQuest, its student business idea competition that continues to showcase the depth of talent across our campus.

From an initial 162 entries, nine exceptional finalists advanced to present ambitious ideas grounded in real‑world needs. Their concepts ranged from tools that help small businesses get discovered, to AI‑supported math learning, wellness and scheduling solutions, and a virtual fitting room designed to reduce returns and clothing waste. Each finalist brought a unique lens, but all shared the same drive to build something that matters.

Congratulations to the winning teams:

• Grand Prize Winner: “Smash to Surpass” – Yesenia Rubi-Smith, Dan Pearson, Symone Ziegler
• Second Place Winner: “Kuboo” – Sarah de Joya
• Third Place Winner: “C.C.C.” – Kate Po

VentureQuest is about more than just the pitch night, it is a months‑long experience where students develop business plans, build financial models, work with mentors, and refine their ideas. Since 2014, VentureQuest has supported more than 80 emerging entrepreneurs and continues to be a launching point for students ready to turn ideas into action.

Event organizer and the Chiu School of Business' Entrepreneurship Innovation and Networking Lead, Stan Peake, was impressed with the caliber of students' business ideas. “VentureQuest 2026 was one of our most successful events in its 13-year history,” he shared.

We’re grateful to TD, our presenting sponsor, whose support plays a key role in making VentureQuest possible and in championing student entrepreneurship at Bow Valley College.

We also extend our thanks to Calgary Innovation Coalition, Futurpreneur, Exmerce, Trico Charitable Foundation, Dentons, and the Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay for their support throughout this year’s competition.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s VentureQuest a success. Your contributions create an environment where student innovation can thrive.

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