Spin Master Founder Awards Startup Prizes at UO

Students pitched business concepts at the University of Oregon to compete for immediate cash rewards.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Startups

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a metal seedling emerging from a stone base, representing student entrepreneurship. — Spin Master co-founder Ronnen Harary awarded cash prizes to University of Oregon students for their business concepts during a pitch event in Eugene. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Spin Master co-founder Ronnen Harary visited the University of Oregon campus in Eugene to hear student business pitches at Gilbert Plaza. Students had the opportunity to win instant cash prizes for their startup concepts during the event.

Why it matters

The visit is part of a broader effort to motivate university students to take initiative and actively pursue their own business ideas. By providing direct feedback and financial rewards, the tour aims to lower the barrier for aspiring entrepreneurs to begin development.

Students had two hours to present their business ideas, with winners receiving an instant $500 award. Participants now have seven days to compete for one of 10 additional prizes totaling $25,000.

The players

Ronnen Harary

He is the co-founder of the global toy and entertainment company Spin Master.

Estella Wynne

She is a student at the University of Oregon who secured funding for a new product design.

The details

University of Oregon student Estella Wynne received $500 for her pepper spray dispenser design, which she plans to develop into a prototype with Northwest Plastics. Presentations took place in front of an Airstream trailer at Gilbert Plaza.

The event occurred on the University of Oregon campus on October 30, 2026.

Market Landscape

This event mirrors the university-based startup pitch competition model currently used to foster innovation among young entrepreneurs. It highlights a growing trend where established industry leaders engage directly with campus talent to bridge the gap between concept and commercialization.

Local students involved in the pitch competition now have a strict seven-day window to prepare for the secondary prize pool. This timeline creates an immediate, high-pressure deadline for participants looking to secure additional funding for their prototypes.

The takeaway

Engaging directly with experienced founders can provide valuable mentorship and immediate financial validation for student innovators. Aspiring entrepreneurs should be prepared to present their business concepts clearly and concisely at any opportunity.