Intero Biosystems Clinches First Place at 2025 Rice Business Plan Competition

Intero Biosystems Triumphs at the Rice Business Plan Competition

The Rice Business Plan Competition, known for being the world's largest and most lucrative student startup contest, witnessed a remarkable achievement this year as Intero Biosystems from the University of Michigan nabbed the coveted grand prize. Their innovative product, Gastroscreen, represents a significant advancement in the life sciences sector by creating the first-ever cell-derived human 'mini gut.' This technology mimics various cell types, as well as the spatial organization and function of the human intestine, providing a groundbreaking platform for safety and efficacy testing for new drugs and treatments.

Held annually, the Rice Business Plan Competition brings together aspiring entrepreneurs from around the globe to showcase their innovative ideas and compete for substantial investment prizes. This year, the competition attracted 42 top-notch startups, selected from a record 550 applicants, representing 34 universities across four countries. The energy and innovation displayed were palpable with diverse teams tackling challenges in multiple sectors, including energy, healthcare, technology, and consumer products.

Intero Biosystems' success was not merely a stroke of luck; their journey to the top was paved with hard work, rigorous preparation, and a deep commitment to their vision. The company’s founders, having integrated their scientific expertise with entrepreneurial skills, presented a compelling business plan that impressed a panel of seasoned investors and judges. The essence of their pitch revolved around the practical applications of Gastroscreen, which features not only the intestinal lining but also supporting tissues, making it a comprehensive mini-organ 'in a dish.' This advancement is set to enhance how drug safety and efficiency are evaluated before human trials commence, marking a significant leap in biomedical research.

Peter Rodriguez, the dean of Rice Business School, emphasized the pivotal role the Rice Business Plan Competition plays in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students. He stated, "For 25 years, the Rice Business Plan Competition has helped shape how Rice Business shows up in the world... If we're serious about changing the world, then it's our responsibility to open doors for students everywhere to imagine bold solutions and build what comes next."

Over a span of three days, the competition featured various stages, including elevator pitches, practice rounds, semifinals, and final presentations, allowing participants not just to compete for cash prizes but also to gain invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities. With over 400 judges participating—the highest number in the competition’s history—teams benefitted from expert feedback and guidance aimed at refining their business strategies and pitches.

The competition concluded with a vibrant awards ceremony on April 12, 2025, where winners were not only celebrated for their achievements but also honored as the future trailblazers of the innovation sector. Alongside Intero Biosystems, other notable participants included MabLab from Harvard University, which secured second place with their rapid testing solutions for drug adulteration, and Re.Solution from RWTH Aachen University, recognized for their sustainable polyester recycling technology—a testament to the caliber of entrepreneurship on display.

Rice Business aims to continue its long-standing tradition of promoting social responsibility and entrepreneurship by providing resources and an environment conducive to innovation. As stated by Rice President Reginald DesRoches during the award ceremony, "At Rice, we believe that ideas are just the beginning. Our mission is to foster an environment where bold ideas are not only imagined but nurtured, tested, and brought into the world to have real impact."

With a legacy of promoting entrepreneurial success, the Rice Business Plan Competition not only supports the next generation of entrepreneurs but significantly contributes to the local and global economy. As startups like Intero Biosystems emerge from this platform, they carry forward the ethos of innovation and responsible business practice into the future. Expect to see more from these pioneering teams that are reshaping industries and tackling some of the pressing challenges of our time. For those interested, detailed insights into competing startups and their innovations can be found on the official Rice Business Plan Competition website.