Innovation Challenge gets spirited

The second annual Crowley Innovation Challenge sparked intense competition among UNF students who joined teams and prepared pitches for their proposals that largely focused on the entrepreneurial elements of business.    

The week got underway at the UNF Student Union with a kickoff on Nov. 6 and ended with the challenge on Nov.17. Dr. Martin Luytjes was the emcee opening the event on the first day and was noted for being the co-director of the Blackstone LaunchPad which officially opened at UNF in the fall semester following a contribution from Blackstone to promote development of entrepreneurship and small business growth for all students. Dr. Leslie Gordon provided emcee duties on the closing day of the event.  

The Innovation Challenge not only prompted competition among student teams, but those students were advised by coaches with entrepreneurial expertise and experience. The event also was supported by the UNF Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, the Crowley Center for Transportation & Logistics at Coggin College along with Blackstone LaunchPad.   

Sean Fortener, Leader of Innovation & Change at Crowley, said the event was a reminder of Crowley principles.

“Through the recent Innovation Challenge, we have unlocked a new horizon of creativity and problem-solving. This challenge not only showcased the incredible talents of the students but also reinforced our commitment to fostering an environment where innovative ideas can thrive. It's a testament to how academic collaboration and a spirit of inquiry can lead to groundbreaking solutions, shaping a brighter future for our community and beyond.”

Dr. Richard Buttimer, dean of Coggin College was a Keynote speaker at the opening ceremonies and said the Crowley Innovation Challenge has become an essential event.    

“We have invested in these resources for you, the UNF students, because we believe in advancing innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit. Those are the core facets driving all business. We hope you take advantage of these opportunities not only for this event, but during your time here at UNF,” Dr. Buttimer said.   

The team proposal of SARR Tech was the winner of the competition. Students who were part of the winning team included:  

• Ruhan Gagnani   
• Renzo Mendoza  
• Angel Pastor  
• Sandy Williams  

The SARR Tech proposal is a specialized software for the current manual LTL consolidation process (combining smaller shipments from multiple shippers that are headed to the same destination) that will reduce costs, carbon footprint, and maximize profits.