Nakita Elwood takes first place in business-venture competition

2014 Apr 14

Nakita Elwood of Madison, Kan., has funding for a new business endeavor after the final round of 3D Emporia on Friday, April 11, 2014. Elwood, who is studying sociology at Emporia State University, made a final pitch in front of judges and more than 100 people who gathered for a gala event at Emporia State University.

Elwood and teammate Teri Whitson of Emporia, Kan., decided to enter 3D Emporia as part of a project for their Global Leadership course at Emporia State University. Both are pursuing leadership minors. The two saw the competition as a way to further develop Elwood’s business idea, Rock Creek Ostrich Ranch.

Rock Creek Ostrich Ranch aims to meet the growing demand for an alternative red meat, while providing good stewardship of natural resources. Because of its beef-like texture and low cholesterol and fat content, there is a large global market for ostrich. These animals are also easier to maintain than cattle and produce more. As one of only five ostrich farms in Kansas, Rock Creek Ostrich Ranch will be able to capitalize on the growing demand. The Ranch currently maintains 300 acres of land near Madison, appropriate for raising breeder sets. When the breeder sets are producing eggs and those chicks reach maturity, the ranch will begin its revenue cycle. They are currently cultivating and strengthening relationships with buyers and vendors.

The 3D Emporia Competition, which stands for Dream It - Design It - Develop It, focuses on cultivating the entrepreneurial spirit of students from Emporia State and Flint Hills Technical College. The competition is a partnership between the School of Business at Emporia State, the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau, and was underwritten by ESB Financial.

The first-place team received $4,000, second place $2,000 and third place $1,000.

On April 30, the top three Emporia teams will compete against teams from Kansas State University in the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge in Manhattan. This competition features the top three teams from 3D Emporia and the top three teams of the K-State Launch, a similar idea competition held at Kansas State University.

"The inaugural 3D Emporia competition has been a win-win all around," said Dr. Michael D. Shonrock, president of Emporia State University. "It showed everyone -- faculty, staff and students at both higher ed institutions and the local business community -- how much can happen through collaboration."