As a STEM student interested in business and entrepreneurship, the Bison Bump Challenge was the perfect introduction to turning ideas into action. The program gave me a chance to dream big, refine my plan with mentorship, and present my business concept on a real stage!

Participating in the AISES Bison Bump Business Plan Challenge was an incredible experience for us. It allowed us to take the land stewardship work we are passionate about and shape it into a fundamental, structured business concept. One of our favorite parts was creating a commercial for our project, which pushed us to think creatively. Our mentor provided thoughtful guidance, helped us stay organized and on track, and encouraged us to think critically. That support made a meaningful difference in our development process. The challenge also gave us a platform to showcase the restoration and greenhouse work we are already doing on campus while gaining public-speaking experience in front of an audience. Most importantly, it meant so much to represent Haskell Indian Nations University and demonstrate our work. We are grateful for the experience and excited to continue growing.

Participating in the AISES Bison Bump Business Plan Challenge was an amazing experience that pushed me to think about my business plan not just as an idea, but as a responsibility to my community. B3PC gave me the structure, mentorship, and accountability to move from vision to strategy. It helped me to break down what it really takes to build something sustainable; market research, financial planning, community impact, and long-term feasibility, rather than relying only on passion. One of the most important outcomes for me was realizing how essential it is to ground my business model in the realities of the reservation. Through B3PC, I learned to think about infrastructure, resource access, partnerships, and governance in a practical way. It laid the foundation for what I need to have in place before returning home: clear implementation steps, funding pathways, community buy-in, and a plan that aligns with tribal priorities and values. B3PC also strengthened my confidence as an Indigenous entrepreneur. It showed me that my ideas are not only valid but necessary, and that culturally-rooted business models can be both economically viable and community-driven. Moving forward, I now have the roadmap that will serve as my guide on how I re-enter my community, build relationships with leadership and stakeholders, and launch in a way that is respectful, collaborative, and sustainable. Ultimately, B3PC didn't just help me to refine a business plan, it prepared me to carry that plan home with intention, accountability, and a clear vision for long-term impact.