The College of Western Idaho (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab invites students, employees, and community members to share their big ideas at the next OtterTank Showcase and Competition on Wednesday, April 22, at the College’s Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB).
Hosted twice each year, OtterTank is an energetic showcase inspired by the television series Shark Tank. Participants pitch business ideas, side hustles, and early-stage ventures through elevator pitches, interactive displays, and live presentations. Finalists take the stage for a chance to win prize money to help bring their ideas to life, with winners selected by audience vote.
“This competition really captures what we’re all about at CWI, giving people the space to explore ideas, feel supported, and try something new,” said Kenton Lee, Director of the CWI Entrepreneur Lab. “OtterTank shows just how much talent and creativity there is in our community when we give entrepreneurs the right tools and encouragement.”
Leading up to the event, the Entrepreneur Lab works closely with participants, providing mentorship and hands-on guidance to refine business plans, strengthen value propositions, and test new concepts.
Previous OtterTank winners demonstrate the impact of the competition and the support available through the Entrepreneur Lab. Jared Lopez, a CWI Admissions Counselor, earned the grand prize in November 2025 for his venture focused on afterschool educational programming designed to support students experiencing socioeconomic hardship. His program aims to create accessible, high-impact learning opportunities that help close educational gaps and build confidence.
Another standout venture came from Seth Hoover and Meagan Ruped, who developed the Powerport Sweater, a functional and stylish garment designed for women undergoing cancer treatment. Ruped’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2023 inspired the idea after the couple identified a need for comfortable, fashionable clothing that accommodates medical devices such as chemotherapy power ports.
CWI is proud to announce that First Federal Bank has partnered with OtterTank as a presenting sponsor for the next three years, expanding opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. The partnership aligns with First Federal Bank’s mission to build and strengthen communities across the Treasure Valley.
“We are proud and excited to be the presenting sponsor of OtterTank,” said Jason Meyerhoeffer, President and CEO of First Federal Bank. “Like CWI, First Federal believes in the spirit of entrepreneurship. It drives our great state and nation. The opportunity to help individuals fulfill their dreams, from inventing to starting a business, is truly rewarding.”
Applications are now open for those interested in pitching their idea, side hustle, or business at the April event. Community members are also invited to attend, explore venture displays, and vote for their favorite presentations.
To learn more or attend, visit Spring 2026 OtterTank's Eventbrite page. Apply to pitch your business idea by completing the Spring 2026 OtterTank form.
