College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Nampa Campus Academic Building buzzed with creativity and ambition as entrepreneurs from across campus and the community gathered for the Fall 2025 OtterTank Showcase and Competition on Nov. 21. Hosted by the CWI Entrepreneur Lab, students, staff, and community members were invited to pitch their business ideas, connect with local business leaders, and compete for prize funding.
“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.”
Participants delivered fast-paced elevator pitches and shared venture displays, giving attendees and judges a firsthand look at the creativity thriving within the Entrepreneur Lab. Audience members also played a role, voting for their favorite idea to determine the evening’s Crowd Favorite award.
Grand Prize Winner – $1,000
Jared Lopez – CWI Admissions Counselor
Business Idea: Afterschool educational activity programming designed to support students in socio-economic hardship, migrant families, or those in need of additional enrichment. Lopez’s venture focuses on building accessible, high-impact learning opportunities that help close gaps and foster confidence.
$500 Winners
Alejandro Ortiz – Powersports and Small Engine Repair student
Calvin Shwarz – CWI student
$250 Winners
Lizzy Gaines – Heavy Equipment Technician student
Maegan Rupe and Seth Hoover – Administrative Assistant III and Business student
Kevin Irankunda – Computer Science student
Crowd Favorite – $250
Fabrice Mugabo – Cybersecurity student
CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab operates as a nexus for innovation, offering students and the community the tools, resources, and mentorship required to thrive in the fast-moving entrepreneurial landscape. OtterTank not only celebrates creativity and drive but also strengthens connections between the College and the local business community through hands-on support, including pitch preparation, one-on-one coaching with staff, and continued engagement through cohorts.
