The 2025 John Pappajohn Student Entrepreneurial Venture Competition capped off its 25th year on April 25 at the University of Iowa Pappajohn Education and Events Center in Des Moines. Eighteen student entrepreneurs representing five Iowa colleges and universities pitched 15 startup ideas during the final round.
“John Pappajohn launched this student competition 25 years ago, and entrepreneurial students continue to innovate and present the most amazing businesses year after year,” said Judi Eyles, director of the Iowa State University John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. “The competition brings student entrepreneurs together from across the state. They enjoy the opportunity to connect and support each other. To make it to the finals of this competition is a great achievement for these young entrepreneurs.”
This year’s finalists represented Drake University, Iowa State University, North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC), the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa. Three student-led ventures took top honors, each receiving $5,000 to advance their business ideas.
Archaneon Supplements
Archaneon Supplements was founded by University of Iowa student Tyler Graham, and offers high-performance nutrition products engineered for serious athletes. With a focus on clinically dosed formulas and full transparency, the brand aims to become a staple in the competitive fitness market.
“Presenting Archaneon Supplements was a meaningful opportunity to share the vision and heart behind a brand built for those who push their limits every day,” said Mr. Graham. “Seeing the results was a powerful reminder that passion, authenticity, and sacrifice can build something truly special.”
Casmium
Henry Shires, a student at Iowa State University, co-founded Casmium to bring smart analytics to youth sports. The company’s software helps teams score games using a digital mobile app, track stats, analyze player performance, and sync data with league databases.
“We are excited to put this prize toward funding travel to coaching clinics, team and media sponsorship, and expanding our product development and sales teams,” Mr. Shires said. “Huge thanks to the Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers for their continued support of our business.”
Renner Ag Solutions
Fifth-generation farmer Caleb Renner of Klemme, Iowa, took home one of the top awards for Renner Ag Solutions. His product, the AgriNet, is a patented device that automates the cleaning of grain bins – making the process faster, safer, and more efficient. Mr. Renner participated in the University of Iowa Venture School through the Mason City cohort.
Twelve additional finalists each received $500 in recognition of their innovative ventures.
- From UNI: Davis Stelzer, North Lindell, and Noah Bronk
- From NIACC: Josh Hanson and the team of Christopher Madsen, David Roman, and Ethan Kudej
- From DU: Gabe Howard, Dorian Boyland, and Diego Munoz
- From ISU: Spenser Leise and the team of Alana Corwin and Jamal Beavers
- From UI: Michal Brzus and Emmanuel Akor
The competition is a joint effort of the Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers at Drake University, Iowa State University, NIACC, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa.
