Borick Scholars present their proposal to the judges. Three young men and one young lady present as a team in the front of a classroom with projected slides behind them.
School of Business

Business Competitions: Real-World Experience in Action

Compete and connect through real-world business challenges.

Business competitions at Western give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a dynamic, real-world setting. These opportunities go beyond the classroom, helping you build confidence, sharpen your skills, and stand out to employers.

A student speaks during her group's presentation for the School of Business ethics competition.

Where Business Theory Meets Real-World Challenge

As part of the School of Business, you’ll participate in prestigious competitions that mirror real business environments. You might pitch investment ideas in the Rocky Mountain Investment Challenge, tackle real-world ethical dilemmas in the Daniels Ethics Case Competition, or demonstrate your sales acumen in the Prosales competition. Each challenge pushes you to think strategically, communicate effectively, and make decisions under pressure. With mentorship from faculty and direct feedback from industry leaders, you’ll gain the kind of hands-on experience that sets you apart—while building a resume that proves you’re ready to lead.

Prospective students participating in Borick Scholars Weekend prepare to present their projects.

Apply Your Skills in High-Stakes Challenges

Whether you’re pitching a stock in the Rocky Mountain Investment Challenge, navigating ethical dilemmas in the Daniels Ethics Case Competition, or demonstrating advanced sales techniques in the Prosales competition, you’ll put your knowledge to the test in real-world business scenarios. Competing against top universities, Western students have consistently placed among the best, proving their skills in investment analysis, ethics, and sales strategy.

Two students, Kareena Hoover and Emma Wilke, hold the awards they won at the Daniel's Ethics Competition with the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative Banner standing between them.

Develop Critical Business Competencies

Each competition hones essential professional skills, from financial analysis and ethical reasoning to persuasive communication and strategic decision-making. By working through complex case studies and delivering high-impact presentations, you’ll build the expertise and confidence needed for success in the business world. You’ll also learn how to work effectively in teams, manage deadlines, and respond to real-time feedback—all crucial capabilities in today’s competitive market.

A student talks with an employer during a career and internship fair.

Enhance Your Resume and Career Prospects

Success in these competitions strengthens your professional profile and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Whether you’re preparing for a career in finance, management, sales, or consulting, these experiences showcase your ability to think critically, work under pressure, and excel in competitive environments. Employers value candidates who can demonstrate real-world problem solving, and your participation in these challenges will help you stand out in interviews and applications.

A professor for the business school asks a question after a student presentation while judging for an ethics competition.

Connect with Industry Professionals

Throughout these challenges, you’ll engage with faculty mentors, business professionals, and fellow competitors, expanding your network and opening doors to future career opportunities. The skills and connections you gain can lead to internships, job offers, and valuable mentorships that support your long-term success. Many competitions also include networking events, feedback sessions, and panel discussions with industry leaders—giving you rare access to insights and connections that go far beyond the classroom.

Mary Donohue take photographs of Hartman rocks

Want to be part of the story?

At Western, students dive into hands-on learning that’s practical, impactful, and built for the real world. Check out the different schools and departments to get involved.