PROVIDENCE - (February 13, 2026) - On February 11, 2026, the Rhode Island Business Competition held its 3rd annual Student Pitch Contest at Roger Williams University.

At this high-energy pitch contest over ten students from not only Roger Williams University but also from Bryant University, Johnson & Wales University, Providence College, University of Rhode Island presented their business ideas in a 90 second pitch format to a panel of judges, including Jason Costa, Vice President of Commercial Banking at Washington Trust, Cedric Hughes, Analyst at REGENT Craft, and Justin Wilkes, Sales Director at Envision Technologies.

The business ideas ranged from car detailing services and an on campus buying platform to medical devices.  The first-place winner who received $500 was Neve Palmeri, owner of  SmartSip and a Providence College student.  Her company has developed a discreet, color-changing straw that detects common drink-tampering substances.

Second place winner receiving $300 was Alyssa Fornier, founder of Slangin Spots and a student at Roger Williams University, developed an artisan hub for New England artists to be able to showcase and sell their products. 

Sam Bocuzzi, owner of PUCC and a URI student, was the third-place winner receiving $200. Her product is aimed at addressing social exclusion and isolation by creating a practical solution to hang belongings safely.

Celebrating its 26th year, the Rhode Island Business Competition fosters development of companies by inviting emerging and established entrepreneurs to submit ideas for a business, in any industry, that is based in Rhode Island and has strong growth potential. The most promising ideas will receive cash and services. 

The Competition is supported by a broad range of sponsors that include private businesses, investors, foundations, colleges and universities, public entities, nonprofit organizations, and former competitors. Today, we are one of the leading community-supported business competitions in the Northeast.