For the first time, QCC participated in the WooTank Intercollegiate Pitch Competition, marking a major milestone for student entrepreneurship at QCC. WooTank is part of StartUp Week Worcester, the multi‑day celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation in Central Massachusetts hosted by Auxilium Worcester.
Under the guidance of the Auxilium Center for Entrepreneurship, 10 student entrepreneurs from across disciplines competed for the opportunity to represent QCC on the WooTank stage. Students hailed from business, technology, healthcare, nursing, and the creative industries, reflecting the diversity of entrepreneurial talent at the college.
Lift Lab Worcester Wins QCC Qualifier and WooTank Investment
Business owner and student entrepreneur Mallory Callahan, founder of Lift Lab Worcester, emerged as the winner of QCC’s internal qualifier. Lift Lab Worcester is a fitness venture centered on bungee‑based workouts that are low‑impact yet high‑energy. Callahan plans to use the funding to obtain certification and purchase truss systems needed to expand her business safely and sustainably.
At WooTank, Callahan competed against students from five other colleges, whose ideas ranged from an innovative braille‑learning tool to a student‑run consignment shop.
Student pitches were judged by local entrepreneurs Zachary Dutton from Auxilium, Evan Cox from The Wire Group, and Michael Byrnes from MB Corporation. All three "sharks" invested in Callahan’s venture for a total of $1,500, marking a strong vote of confidence from the judges.
Callahan’s pitch stood out not only for its innovative approach to fitness, but also for the lessons she shared from her entrepreneurial journey. Having launched a previous business without sufficient capital, Mallory emphasized the importance of careful planning and sustainable growth. Lift Lab Worcester is already underway, built slowly and intentionally with hard‑earned experience guiding every step.
Preparing for the Pitch
In preparation for the qualifying competition, QCC students worked closely with experienced mentors to refine their business models, pitch decks, and presentation skills. For many participants, this marked their first formal pitch in front of judges and a live audience.
The competition was hosted by Jennifer Hernandez, QCC alum and CEO of G.E.M. Marketing Solutions, who celebrated the company’s 10‑year anniversary this year. Each student was challenged to clearly articulate their business idea, the problem it addresses, and any traction or results achieved to date.
Student ventures spanned a wide range of industries, including beauty and wellness, pet products, healthcare, transportation, fitness, technology, and community‑based services.
“The QCC WooTank Pitch Competition reflects the college’s ongoing commitment to experiential learning, innovation, and student success through entrepreneurship,” said Rocky Knight, director of the Auxilium Center for Entrepreneurship.
Other QCC Student Ventures
In addition to Lift Lab Worcester, several QCC student entrepreneurs presented compelling ventures:
- Hair by Jamie – Srey Sran Leon Veng
More than a traditional hair salon, Hair by Jamie focuses on empowering new hairstylists through mentorship and opportunity. Veng emphasized, “It’s not just an idea—it’s what I do every day.” Funding would support marketing efforts. - Faithful Acts – Kenia Carvajal‑Bautista (second-place winner in QCC's qualifier)
A translation service that simplifies complex tax and financial processes for community members. Carvajal‑Bautista aims to earn her CPA license, expand capacity, and improve marketing and her website. - Gato Guapo – Kay Valez
A pet food venture focused on specialized diets for pets with health conditions. With the U.S. being the world’s largest and fastest‑growing pet food market, funding would support market research and website development. - Stir My Coffee – Jon Scott
A data‑driven platform similar to Yelp, but designed specifically for coffee shops, highlighting engagement, participation, and measurable growth. - Starseed Medical Transportation – Marc‑Clyve Pierre
A transportation service addressing missed medical appointments among elderly and disabled populations. Plans include a secure, HIPAA‑compliant website and a June launch. - Independent Living Support Services – Chrislor Revalcy
Non‑medical home support for seniors, including cleaning, laundry, and companionship. Inspired by caring for his father, Revalcy is studying to become a CNA and seeks funding to formally register the business. - Repass Service – Kelo Tibbs (third-place winner in QCC's qualifier)
A tiered event‑planning service designed to support families navigating funeral and memorial planning while grieving. - Golden Hook Arm Wrestling – Mark Bugbee
A company producing customized arm‑wrestling equipment, addressing a gap in the market where athletes currently modify non‑specialized gym gear.
QCC’s debut at WooTank underscores the growing momentum of student‑led innovation on campus and signals an exciting future for entrepreneurial learning opportunities at the college.