Knoxville, Tenn. (PRWEB) June 27, 2013
Steven W. Pierson, creator of PipeFighters Square, took home the grand prize for the Whats the Big Idea?! business plan competition, sponsored by Rodefer Moss & Company, supported by Knowledge Launch and STC Staffing, and produced by The Development Corporation of Knox County, the Knoxville Chamber and Tech 2020. The event was held at Relix Variety Theatre on June 21.
Piersons Big Idea, PipeFighters Square, is an innovative pipe cutting tool that saves time and energy. The tool allows pipe fitters to cut the pipe on any angle degree, which is an important part of pipe fabrication.
Im shocked, Pierson said. I knew I had the greatest product, but Im not the best public speaker. I just hoped my product would pull me through, because its something thats been needed for a long time.
Pierson and the other two finalists Jian Huang and Charles Chin had 10 minutes to pitch their Big Ideas to a panel of five judges. Huangs company, Survature, offered a cutting edge way to conduct online surveys, while Chins Neural Energy Games reimagined how college freshmen learn introductory level biology, chemistry, and physics, by creating educational video games. Ultimately, it was Pierson who came out on top.
Jimmy Rodefer, CEO and president of Rodefer Moss & Company PLLC. was Piersons coach through the contest. He said the moment he heard Piersons pitch at Team Selection Night in May he knew he had a unique product and wanted him on his team.
Im really happy we were able to take his idea and communicate it, Rodefer said. (As the engineer of PipeFighters Square) he needed the business consulting to perfect and solidify his company. I thought we could help out by putting this idea with some administration, financing and marketing ideas. It seems like it took and hes going to go a long way.
Pierson will receive a Big Idea Launch Package that includes up to $ 10,000 in start-up reimbursement costs, one year of free rent at the Fairview Technology Center, and complimentary business services.
About the Knoxville Chamber
The Knoxville Chamber is the regions leading business organization with more than 2,000 members that employ more than 276,000 individuals. More than 80 percent of Chamber members are small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. It fulfills its mission of Driving Regional Economic Prosperity by recruiting new businesses and supporting existing companies, and manages Innovation Valley, a regional economic development initiative. The organization actively advocates on the behalf of the business community. Members receive marketing, networking, professional development benefits, and many other cost-effective services. For more information visit http://www.knoxvillechamber.com.
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