Startup funding awarded to Music Business major during Vol Court competition
Robert Troutman, a senior music business major from Lenoir City, Tennessee, earned second place in the Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (ACEI) Vol Court competition.
Vol Court is a four-week entrepreneurial speaker series that culminates in a 90-second business idea pitch competition. The ACEI, part of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Haslam College of Business, hosts the event each semester. Participating students put what they learn in the speaker series into practice by pitching their business ideas to a panel of successful entrepreneurs for a chance to win up to $1,500.
“The concepts and companies that were presented at Vol Court were incredibly diverse and creative. From fintech and mechanical engineering to art, music and food, we heard pitches representing a wide array of ideas, showcasing the breadth of passion and skills of the students at [UT],” said Breanna Hale, executive director of the ACEI, in a recent interview. “I was incredibly impressed and proud of our students and can’t wait to see these ventures continue to develop with the support of the Anderson Center and our dedicated community.”
The team of judges awarded The Bobby Band, founded by Troutman, the second-place prize of $1,000. The Bobby Band is a seven-piece brass band based in Knoxville that aims to bring brass back into modern music. After gaining popularity playing in many local venues, The Bobby Band is looking to grow and secure bigger venues.
“This Vol Court win means the world to me and The Bobby Band,” Troutman said. “This win provides us funding to record and take our music to the next level.”
You can read more about the Anderson Center and their opportunities for UT music students on the Haslam College of Business website.
CONTACT:
Alissa Galyon, College of Music Director of Marketing & Communications
[email protected]
Brennan Hullet, ACEI Marketing & Outreach Manager
[email protected]