The University of Iowa’s John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (Iowa JPEC) wrapped up a successful end-of-semester pitch competition for its startup incubator program Dec. 13 at the Bedell Entrepreneurship Learning Laboratory.

A total of $5,000 in prizes was awarded across three categories.

Among the winners, one name stood out: McKenzie Capito of Pathways to Publisher, who walked away with two awards, securing $1,000 for the Best Idea Stage and $500 for the Founder’s Choice Award. Capito’s mission is to provide digital resources that make learning about and building a career in the publishing industry more accessible for university students. 

The Best Startup Stage prize of $1,500 went to Xandra McGlasson of Abel Table. Her innovation, an adjustable dining table designed specifically for individual wheelchair users, aims to increase inclusivity and enhance shared dining experiences for people with disabilities. 

In the Best Traction/Growth Stage category, Tyler Graham of Archaneon Supplements LLC claimed the top prize of $2,000. His venture offers fitness supplements tailored for high-end gym enthusiasts, powerlifters, and bodybuilders.

About Iowa JPEC: Iowa JPEC fosters entrepreneurship and innovation across the state of Iowa by providing a range of educational and training programs and support services for entrepreneurial ventures and existing small-to-medium size businesses. Iowa JPEC is dedicated to nurturing the growth of new ventures and assisting them in reaching their full potential.