Moraine Park Technical College student Valerie Rivera earned first place at the 2026 NEW Ideas Pitch Challenge, a regional competition that brings together small business and entrepreneurship program students from Wisconsin technical colleges to present innovative ideas, network with peers and receive feedback from business and community leaders.
The event was hosted at Mid-State Technical College. Participants competed for recognition and cash prizes while gaining experience presenting to industry professionals.
Rivera’s winning concept, Foldilocks: From Dryer to Drawer, is an all-in-one appliance designed to dry and fold laundry in a single machine. The idea focuses on improving efficiency by combining two household tasks into one process, eliminating the need for manual folding and reducing time spent on laundry.
Opportunities like the NEW Ideas Pitch Challenge allow students to apply classroom knowledge in a competitive, hands-on environment. By developing and pitching ideas, students build skills in communication, problem-solving and innovation.
Congratulations, Valerie!