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The Riata Startup Experience (RSX) is a two-phase program for OSU students, faculty and staff entrepreneurs interested in pursuing a business concept or growing a pre-existing venture. Each phase is designed to develop a business via learning opportunities, one-on-one coaching and university and nationwide competitions. Phases one and two are each 12 weeks during the fall and spring semesters. Following the completion of phase one and two, participants are eligible to apply for the Summer Greiner Accelerator Program.

Spring 2025 program dates

Applications open

Jan. 13

Applications close

Jan. 29

RSX program dates

Feb. 3 - April 25

Throughout the RSX ProgramParticipants will demonstrate the following

Market validation & venture development

Successfully perform a feasibility analysis to understand problem-solution, customer, industry and market validation. Venture-specific development includes financials, entity formation, etc.

Pitching and presenting skills

Learn how to speak about your venture by developing a pitch deck using fact-based and data-driven evidence to educate others on your concept.

Professional skills and networking

Develop professional skills as it pertains to working with mentors, OSU professors and other key members of the venture development ecosystem.


Meet Riata's Entrepreneur in Residence

Kristen Hadley is a seasoned entrepreneur with over thirty years of experience, started and managed more than twenty businesses and serves as a CEO, COO, inventor, founder, business advisor, and startup coach, specializing in simplifying the startup process. Kristen's passion for the early stages of small businesses and her hands-on approach make her an invaluable mentor.

Kristen Hadley headshot


Our current members:

  • Alejandra Lozano

    Lozco is a construction and real estate development company that builds homes for disabled people.

  • Carson McLain

    Sodaville is a mobile soda lounge that offers a unique twist on the classic soda experience with “dirty sodas”. Whether you’re craving a cola with a kick or a fruity, fizzy creation, we’ve got a perfect mix for everyone. Coming soon you’ll be able to find us around town or book us for your next event for a completely customized beverage experience.

  • Daniel Suastegui

    Covenant Car Care aims to provide high-quality, reliable automotive services grounded in Christian values, ensuring customer satisfaction and community trust. We hope to become a trusted name in auto care within the community by delivering exceptional services with integrity and skill.

  • Jada Griffin

    Urban Street Station LLC is a brand with an EIN and LLC status, currently developing its website. Our mission is to empower individuals worldwide, regardless of gender, to express their unique selves and create their own style with our personally designed graphic clothing.

     

    Our clothing line is rooted in streetwear, infused with a unique perspective on the world and a futuristic twist. It incorporates meaningful elements and a love for graffiti. Initially, our store will offer clothing designed by us. In the future, we plan to feature custom-designed shoes, rugs, hats, and more.

     

    We aspire to make a significant global impact and eventually open a physical store where people can admire and purchase our clothing line.

  • Maija Knudson

    Request Relief  is an app that empowers you to “Be The We.”  Request Relief simplifies the process for neighbors in need to request clothing and other items, while also making it easier for donors to support their fellow citizens. This app streamlines the donation process for both sides.

  • Marian Gutierrez

    The 405 is a college nightclub in Stillwater, Oklahoma, known for its vibrant atmosphere. It features the best music, modern experiences and exciting lighting and special effects.

  • Mary Wellington

    Boba Pour provides premium boba products to local beverage shops looking to expand their offerings without the hassle of sourcing ingredients themselves. We specialize in helping cafes and restaurants introduce high-quality bubble tea to their menus with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Our streamlined service ensures that businesses can confidently tap into the growing boba market.

  • Mia Merciez

    Little Okie Loaves is a micro bakery focused on sourdough options. Providing gut healthy options, sourdough products are highly sought after. Little Okie Loaves currently offers sourdough scones, loaves, sandwich bread, bagels and focaccia as well as gluten free options of all of these products. 

  • Michelle Brooks

    Neon Ignite Candle Company offers 100% soy wax luxury candles that combine sustainability with striking, one-of-a-kind designs. Each candle is meticulously crafted to provide a clean burn and bold scent, perfect for those seeking both style and eco-consciousness. The brand stands out with its vibrant, modern aesthetic, delivering a sensory experience that is both unique and indulgent.

  • Olivia Tregellas

    GaurdU enhances safety for outdoor enthusiasts and ride-share users by tracking location and time. Users can set a route or area, and if they go outside these boundaries or exceed a preset time without responding, their emergency contacts are alerted. The app has two modes: one for outdoor activities like running or walking, and another for monitoring ride-share trips. This solution offers peace of mind by ensuring users' whereabouts are monitored for safety.

  • Ricky Kegley

    Astrategic Innovations specializes in developing customized large language models tailored to support strategic decision-making across various industries. It offers a subscription-based platform that leverages AI to provide real-time insights, strategic forecasts and scenario planning. Additionally, the company provides consulting and continuous support to refine AI models, ensuring businesses can quickly adapt to evolving market conditions and industry trends.

  • Sean Fernandes

    StillyKicks leverages the dynamics of supply and demand in the limited-edition footwear market. By targeting shoes with low production volumes, often released only once or at infrequent intervals, we strategically buy and sell based on current market conditions. This approach allows us to capitalize on events and sales, thereby expanding our capital and growing our business.

  • Steven Azzaro

    AzTech is revolutionizing sporting equipment, such as golf clubs, baseball/softball bats, tennis rackets, pickleball paddles and hockey sticks. By reimagining the way that the equipment handles interact with your natural anatomy and physiology, AzTech products provide comfortable and simple swing stabilizers to enhance your game at any level. 

  • Thomas Kidd

    Cornhole+ is a Cornhole Scoring and Stats-Tracking System that delivers real-time game results and player statistics. This solution enhances the experience for both casual and competitive players by providing insights to help them improve their performance across games and leagues.

  • Tianna Etes

    Dr. PalmTree’s Calm & Canvas offers a unique blend of art therapy and wellness through tranquil, alcohol-free sip-and-paint experiences. Guests can relax and express their creativity while enjoying healthy beverages like tea and smoothies. In addition to therapeutic events, Calm & Canvas features a proprietary line of easels, paintbrushes, and canvases designed to enhance relaxation and mindfulness. With a focus on emotional healing and mental well-being, this business creates a holistic space for self-care, creativity and community connection.

 
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