$50,000. 4 Finalists.

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The John Ruffatto Startup Challenge is a statewide, experiential learning event hosted annually by the University of Montana College of Business since 1989.

The Startup Challenge is Montana's premiere opportunity for students attending select colleges or universities across Montana to present exciting new businesses and/or social entrepreneurship venture ideas for adjudication. The Startup Challenge is run by the UM College of Business. 

2024 EVENT: APRIL 26

You are invited to attend the public, live pitch event!

Join us on Friday, April 26 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. for the John Ruffatto Startup Challenge public event. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

More information on attending the event will be released leading up to the competition date.