Bryant University’s Annual Entrepreneurship Expo: A Showcase of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurial Spirit

In the heart of Smithfield, Rhode Island, Bryant University’s campus buzzes with an energy that’s palpable. It’s an energy that’s fueled by innovation, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives among its students. Every year, this energy culminates in the much-anticipated Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo, a platform where student entrepreneurs showcase their brilliant ideas and transformative business ventures.

Lifted Blends: A Post-Workout CBD Recovery Beverage

Amidst the Expo’s vibrant atmosphere, the Lifted Blends booth stands out with its sleek design and enthusiastic team. Killian Lathrop ’24 and Tiernan Lathrop ’26, the brotherly duo behind Lifted Blends, greet attendees with warm smiles and a refreshing sample of their post-workout CBD recovery beverage. Their product is a testament to their dedication to health and wellness, offering a natural way to soothe muscles and promote recovery after an intense workout.

The Lathrop brothers’ journey as entrepreneurs began with a simple observation: the lack of healthy and effective post-workout recovery options. Driven by their passion for fitness and their desire to make a difference, they embarked on a mission to create a beverage that would not only aid in muscle recovery but also taste great.

Their efforts have paid off. Lifted Blends has quickly gained traction, capturing the attention of fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike. The beverage is now available online and in stores across New England, a testament to the brothers’ hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support they’ve received from the Bryant Ventures program.

The Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo: A Platform for Student Entrepreneurs

The Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo is more than just an event; it’s an embodiment of the university’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. Organized by Bryant Ventures, the startup and small business accelerator arm of Bryant’s chapter of the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO), the Expo brings together students, professors, alumni, and potential investors to celebrate and support student entrepreneurship.

Tyler Griffin ’25, the president of Bryant Ventures, exudes passion as he speaks about the Expo’s mission: to provide students with a platform to transform their ideas into tangible businesses. He emphasizes the importance of providing young entrepreneurs with the encouragement and resources they need to succeed. The Expo serves as a mini trade show where students can receive support, feedback, and guidance from the Bryant community, allowing them to learn from their experiences and grow their businesses.

Building a Brand: From LEGO Reseller to Craft Brewery Marketing

Matthew Fiore ’25, a self-professed LEGO enthusiast, knows a thing or two about building brands. His entrepreneurial journey began in eighth grade when he launched Summerfield’s Bricks, an online store selling LEGO pieces. Driven by his passion for LEGO bricks and the realization that millions of people shared his enthusiasm, Fiore saw an opportunity to turn his hobby into a business.

With the help of his father and uncle, Fiore set up an eBay store and began selling pieces from his own collection. As his business grew, he realized the need to improve his shipping process. An Entrepreneurship grant from Bryant University provided him with the necessary funds to invest in better packaging and faster shipping methods.

However, Fiore recognized that his skills in pitching his business in person needed refinement. The Expo provided him with the perfect opportunity to practice his pitch and receive feedback from potential investors and experienced entrepreneurs. He credits the Expo and the support from Bryant Ventures for helping him develop the confidence and skills necessary to take his business to the next level.

Zenon Kolcio ’26, the son of a craft brewer, is also harnessing the power of the Expo to launch his startup, New Tap Marketing. Kolcio’s venture aims to help breweries stand out in a competitive market by providing them with innovative marketing solutions. He participated in the Expo to gather feedback on his concept and refine his business idea.

Kolcio believes that the Expo, along with Bryant Ventures meetings, provides him with the necessary support and guidance to jumpstart his business. He values the opportunity to connect with experienced entrepreneurs and learn from their successes and failures.

Fostering a Community of Entrepreneurs: Collaboration and Support

The Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo transcends its role as a mere platform for students to showcase their businesses. It also fosters a sense of community among Bryant’s entrepreneurial-minded students. Fiore, who founded the Bryant Builders student organization, recalls his first experience attending the Expo as a first-year student. He was inspired by the diverse ideas and the support he received from other students, which motivated him to continue participating in the event.

Nina Karlin ’24, the founder of The Fresh Kick, a startup selling a three-in-one sneaker accessory, sees the Expo as a celebration of the growing Entrepreneurship program at Bryant University. She believes that the event showcases the talent and creativity of student entrepreneurs and provides an opportunity for them to come together and inspire one another.

Alumni Involvement: Mentoring and Advice from Experienced Entrepreneurs

The Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo is not just about students supporting students. Several alumni, many of them former CEO and Bryant Ventures members, returned to campus for the Expo to offer encouragement and advice to the student entrepreneurs. Mitchell Depalo ’27, who presented his idea for an app called “Post It” that uses artificial intelligence to help business owners populate their websites, appreciated the feedback he received from Nick Cianfaglione ’20, founder of band management company Artist’s Republik and restaurant booking service Restaurent. Cianfaglione provided Depalo with valuable insights on how to refine his elevator pitch, making it more concise and compelling.

Bradley Adams ’17, founder of software company Aerogami, emphasized the importance of alumni sharing their experiences and lessons learned with student entrepreneurs. He believes that these interactions help students learn from their mistakes and prepare them for future success.

Conclusion: Cultivating Entrepreneurial Excellence at Bryant University

The Bryant Ventures Entrepreneurship Expo is a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and providing students with the resources and support they need to turn their ideas into successful ventures. The event showcases the diversity of student-led businesses, ranging from consumer products to technology startups, and highlights the creativity and passion of Bryant’s students. The Expo also serves as a platform for alumni to connect with current students, offering guidance and mentorship, further strengthening the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.