University of Tennessee at Chattanooga 2025
The Patton Foundation recently hosted its Entrepreneurship Challenge at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, in partnership with the Gary W. Rollins College of Business. Modeled after the popular “Shark Tank” format, this live pitch competition featured six student finalist teams presenting innovative business ideas to a panel of local business leaders.
The top three winners were awarded a combined $8,500 in grant funding to further their ventures. From tech tools that modernize education to clever rainy-day gear and custom 3D-printable rubber ducks, the competition showcased the creativity and ambition of Tennessee’s next generation of entrepreneurs. The Challenge is part of the Foundation’s broader mission to equip young leaders to think entrepreneurially, navigate a rapidly changing economy, and lead with impact in business, nonprofit, and civic innovation.
