Creating Tomorrow’s Success Stories

NC State senior Joseph Moster thinks his low-cost aerial drone could help shape the future of aerospace technology. Grad student Andrew Misenheimer wants to make motorcycles both safer and more powerful.

These aren’t idle dreams. The business world is always on the hunt for the next big thing. What product or service is going to have customers lining up and asking for more? As the United States continues its move towards an innovation-based economy, this question is more important than ever – and NC State is providing some answers.

The university’s Entrepreneurship Initiative showcased contestants in its annual eGames competition April 21, giving the world a sneak peek at some of the products being invented and brought to market by NC State student entrepreneurs. From motorcycle superchargers to unmanned aircraft, these products are not only innovative but were developed to meet specific needs in the marketplace.

“The future of this state, and the nation, will be driven by individuals who create jobs,” says Dr. Louis Martin-Vega, dean of NC State’s College of Engineering. “The Entrepreneurship Initiative is about helping our students become leaders and innovators.”

Only in its third year, eGames has already served as a springboard to success for some NC State students. Sound Around, a team from the last year’s competition, developed a website that allows musicians to design customized iPhone applications that give fans access to video, audio, concert dates and social-media feeds. Within months the start-up was purchased by New York-based ReverbNation for an undisclosed sum. You can’t argue with real-world success.

“The eGames is a celebration of student innovation,” says Dr. Tom Miller, executive director of the Entrepreneurship Initiative. “We’re helping our students provide the seeds for new ideas, new companies and new products to make the world a better place.”

Check out some of this year’s eGames contestants – you may be able to buy stock in their companies some day.

2011 eGame Photo Gallery