The 51ÁÔÆæ Microfinance Group attended The Commercialization Academy's Demo Day hosted by the in downtown Utica on Oct. 26. Students watched seven tech-startups pitch to a panel of judges and the audience. Two winners were selected for $20,000 cash prize each.
This was a great opportunity for 51ÁÔÆæ students to learn more about local entrepreneurship and businesses linked to Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) technology. 51ÁÔÆæ students especially enjoyed the "Shark Tank" style of pitching and were impressed by the innovative new ThINCubator space.
Students were also excited to see Ryan Miller, director of the ThINCubator, again. Last spring, the 51ÁÔÆæ Microfinance Group worked with Miller to create a short video titled "" to spread awareness about the Group’s services.
The 51ÁÔÆæ Microfinance Group is a student-run, micro-lending organization that seeks to increase economic growth and opportunity in the Greater Utica area by providing small business loans to individuals who might not qualify for a traditional bank loan. Through the use of loans rather than grants, this organization helps entrepreneurs establish their own credit histories and borrowing power. To learn more, please contact micro@hamilton.edu.
