Cheers: UST Student Named Finalist in Entrepreneurship Contest

University of St. Thomas student, BreAnna Fisher, is one of six regional finalists who will compete in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization and the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards competition tomorrow in Chicago. Fisher, en route to the competition today, is the only student from Minnesota nominated for the 2012 competition. A Twin Cities native, she is on track to graduate from the University of St. Thomas with a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship in spring 2013.

In addition to her college courses, Fisher is a social media expert who is revolutionizing gift-giving over smart devices with her new Web-based application, DoDrinks.com. DoDrinks is currently incubated at the Schulze School of Entrepreneurship at the University of St. Thomas. The Schulze School of Entrepreneurship Lab provides a place for student and alumni entrepreneurs to build community as well as build businesses. Professors Alec Johnson and Jay Ebben have been providing guidance to the company.

“It is so exciting to be selected for this prestigious competition and to have the opportunity to meet other student entrepreneurs,” explained Fisher. “I am feverously preparing to ensure that I am ready with the written report and presentation. I want to be sure that I make both my university and my state proud!”

During the fiercely competitive event, student entrepreneurs will present their companies in a verbal/visual presentation format and a written report to a panel of leading entrepreneurs, media and dignitaries. Judging criteria include: entrepreneurship, business fundamentals, lessons learned, and growth and future plans. Participants will compete for $150,000 in prizes, international media exposure and high-level networking opportunities.

The Entrepreneurs’ Organization is a dynamic, global network of more than 8,700 business owners in 38 countries. Founded in 1987 by a group of young entrepreneurs, EO is the catalyst that enables entrepreneurs to learn and grow from each other, leading to greater business success and an enriched personal life. The winner from the Chicago competition will advance to compete in the 2012 GSEA Global Finals in New York on Nov. 14-16.

Founded in April 2012, DoDrinks is a technology-based promotional company that is privately held by Minneapolis-based Do Group LLC. Currently in Alpha testing, DoDrinks.com allows drinks of all kinds to be pre-bought by one party and sent to another using a smart device with Internet access. The company is partnering with Heineken to engage in a one-brand pilot test in the Minneapolis market in late 2012.

 Read more from TECH{dot}MN and the Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal's Innovation Blog