Built on campus
Backyard Blendz
Iona University · New Rochelle, NY
Affiliated with Iona Innovation Challenge · Pitch Competition
2018 Iona Innovation Challenge first place Technology winner.
Sources & articles
News and official sources documenting Backyard Blendz's outcome through Iona Innovation Challenge.
2 sources
Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation Homepage
Iona University
Iona University
Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation Homepage
Official homepage of the Hynes Institute, Iona's university-wide entrepreneurship hub. Founded 2017 with $15M gift. 3,800 sq ft coworking space in Spellman Hall. Hosts Iona Innovation Challenge ($20K total prizes), GaelVentures incubator space, and mentoring programs. USASBE 2025 Model Program Award. BS Entrepreneurial Leadership, BBA Entrepreneurship, minor, and graduate certificates offered.
Read on Iona University
Iona University
Iona Innovation Challenge Program Page
Official page for the Iona Innovation Challenge, Iona's annual pitch competition. Spring 2026 is the 9th edition. Prize breakdown: $10K 1st, $5K 2nd, $3K 3rd, $1K Fan Favorite, $1K Superlative Awards ($20K total). Documents 2025 winners (SipSation, Strendex, Bracelet Buddy), participation stats (43 teams, 57 students), and winners from 2018-2024. Three milestones: video pitch, executive summary, slide deck. Open to all Iona undergrad and graduate students.
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