The Ole Cup, an annual student entrepreneurial competition at St. Olaf College, has become a cornerstone of the college’s entrepreneurship program over the past decade. The competition was launched with the goal of showing students that a liberal arts education equips them with the necessary skills to become successful entrepreneurs. Since its inception, the Ole Cup has supported over 150 students in developing their business ideas and has awarded more than $250,000 in prize money to help fund their ventures.
One of the most notable success stories to come out of the Ole Cup is JonnyPops, a frozen treat company that started as a student pitch and has now grown into a multi-million dollar business with products available at major retailers. The competition has not only launched thriving businesses but has also nurtured a passion for innovation and impactful work in countless Oles across various fields.
The Ole Cup is part of a rich ecosystem of entrepreneurship on campus, with the entrepreneurship program at St. Olaf dating back to 1992. The competition puts students’ business plans in front of a panel of judges that include business leaders and alumni, providing them with valuable feedback and mentorship. Through partnerships with entrepreneurial incubators and regional business leaders, students have access to external expertise to help refine their ideas and strategies.
Participants in the Ole Cup come from diverse academic backgrounds and are involved in various campus organizations, showcasing the competitive edge of a liberal arts education. The competition challenges students to think critically, develop creative solutions, and take a leap of faith into the unknown with excitement and passion. The skills honed through the Ole Cup, such as research, critical thinking, and effective communication, prepare Oles for success in any post-graduate opportunity.
Alumni of the Ole Cup reflect on the impact the competition had on their careers and personal growth. From launching successful businesses to pursuing careers in various fields, the Ole Cup has been a catalyst for many Oles to realize their entrepreneurial potential. Participants like Jakob Otten, Michael Paredes, and Marie-Simone Kadurira have leveraged their experiences in the Ole Cup to make a difference in their respective fields and communities.
The stories of success from the Ole Cup serve as a testament to the power of a liberal arts education in fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The competition not only provides students with a platform to showcase their ideas but also equips them with the skills and confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. As the Ole Cup continues to inspire and empower the next generation of Oles, it remains a testament to the transformative impact of combining liberal arts education with entrepreneurial spirit.
