NW Valley Times

Dillan Krohn emerged victorious at the Canyon Challenge held at Grand Canyon University’s Sunset Auditorium, where he presented his product, Krohn Kreamer. His pitch convinced three judges that his product addresses both flavor and health concerns for coffee consumers, earning him a $2,500 first-place prize among four other competitors.

Krohn emphasized the market demand for a healthier creamer option, stating, “Consumers in this market are dying for a product that will make the coffee taste better but also make them feel better.” This event was organized by the IDEA Club under Robert Vera and Tim Kelley, encouraging student entrepreneurship with cash prizes totaling $6,000.

Cody Enck's Lawn Shell won the runner-up prize of $1,500 and an additional $1,000 People's Choice Award. Ainsley Ross secured third place with her business Wake Share. The competition capped off Krohn's semester-long dedication in Vera’s business execution class.

Krohn described his product as dairy-free and low-calorie with no sugar content. He has already received 83 preorders and is planning to expand into coffee shops and grocery stores while considering obtaining a provisional patent.

Nick Kasten from National Bank of Arizona and two other judges evaluated each contestant's five-minute pitch. Krohn credited GCU's Discover trip as pivotal in his decision to attend the university due to its business program.

The event highlighted various innovative projects including presentations from Kate Hames of Anomaly Co., RaSean McMiller of Aluee Haircare, and junior innovators David Thomas and Jacen Ellis with their Student Connect tutoring business.

Vice President Andrew Bussmann reported significant sales from the IDEA Club’s Marketplace events. The evening showcased entrepreneurship efforts aiming to attract future students to GCU through initiatives like Entrepreneurship 3000.