How can small businesses make smart, strategic decisions without access to the high-cost data tools used by industry giants? That’s the question students tackled at the inaugural Trent Durham Business Innovators Challenge (TDBIC), a one-day event featuring student pitch presentations developed in collaboration with Addison Marketing Solutions. 

Drawing on classroom learning and close engagement with local business leaders, Master of Management students spent weeks developing new, affordable models for delivering market intelligence to resource-limited organizations in advance of the competition event. Their solutions—creative, practical, and grounded in real-world constraints—offered more than ideas: they delivered value. 

“This challenge bridges the gap between classroom learning and the real-world needs of our region,” said Dr. Scott Henderson, vice-president and head of Trent University Durham GTA. “It’s inspiring to see students apply their skills to issues that matter. This is exactly the kind of experiential learning that prepares them for the future and delivers tangible outcomes in the real world.” 

A panel of expert judges evaluated the teams on the quality and creativity of their solutions, recognizing the top teams for their outstanding contributions. Team Triple Edge, with students Davida Egbung, Shivani Shetty, Abena Opare Addo, and Jiaxin Xu, won first place for their idea for SIVIA - a one-stop shop for the data that companies need to succeed.  

Dubbed “the Costco of Market Intelligence”, SIVIA aggregates third-party data and public consumer reviews to provide the platform’s subscribers with affordable insights about products, customers and competitors. Their plan is tailored to the needs of the restaurant industry, aiming to help small businesses grow with confidence. 

“The solutions presented by the teams were not only thoughtful and creative but also practical and grounded in real business needs,” said Eric Harbottle, CEO & Founder of Addison Marketing Solutions. “It’s clear that there is a wealth of talent coming out of Trent University. We’re proud to be part of this initiative and to support local businesses through these collaborations.” 

Through this experience, all students gained hands-on experience working with local businesses, sharpening their skills in analysis, communication, and innovation.  

“By tackling complex challenges alongside local businesses, students are building résumés and helping shape a more informed and connected local economy,” noted Dr. Ken Chen, associate director of the School of Business and lead of the TDBIC initiative. 

The success of the inaugural TDBIC sets the stage for ongoing collaborations that will continue to empower students, support local businesses, and contribute to the growth of the Durham Region.