June 19, 2019

High school student, Aaron Taylor, from Prairie Rose School Division recently took home $750 as a result of his pitch at Medicine Hat College’s (MHC) Pub Pitch Night, which was hosted at the Medicine Hat Brewing Company.

The creator of Basement Dweller Games (BDG), an independent video game company, Taylor won both People’s Choice and the Best Pitch award. 

Tracy Stroud, manager of business development says that Taylor’s presentation left a lasting impression on the attendees.

“Aaron is a self-taught developer who designs, writes and creates the characters and the games themselves; his knowledge on both the gaming and current ethical practices was pretty remarkable,” says Stroud. “He not only impressed the judges but he also left an impression on the attendees. His overall presentation was professional and we can definitely see a bright future for him.”

Laurie Haliwyz-Way from Literacy Lane presented her, and team member Lisa Warken’s, business which includes an educational tool, built out of vinyl, that promotes active learning. The group received invaluable feedback that they will be able to integrate into their business plan.

“What’s great about the pub pitch nights is that they provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to receive feedback that they can use to strengthen their businesses,” says Stroud. “They may not walk away with cash prizes but they’ve gained exposure and access to mentorship – for a start-up that can be just as valuable.” 

During the event, Entrepreneur Development Centre (EDC) and MHC alumnus, Martyn Clift was a guest speaker. The 2019 pitch competition winner presented on his experience with the college and his company That’z a Wrap; a business that provides vinyl wrapping for surfaces in both residential and commercial spaces.

MHC’s Pub Pitch Nights run throughout the year and are open to the community. For more information on the Entrepreneur Development Centre’s upcoming events, visit www.mhc.ab.ca.