On March 5, 2026, Gordon State College students stepped into the spotlight to pitch their business ideas in the school’s first-ever entrepreneurship competition—Shark Tank-style.
Six student-entrepreneurs presented their original concepts to a panel of judges made up of community leaders and industry professionals. Each participant delivered a timed pitch followed by a question-and-answer session, testing not only their ideas but their ability to think on their feet.
The competition featured a wide range of business concepts, including robotics, music, transportation security systems, fishing charters, and equine care. Judges evaluated each presentation using a detailed and comprehensive scoring rubric.
The event drew 60 attendees, including students, faculty, staff, and family members.
Local Winner Takes the Prize
The first place winner was Lamar County’s Danielle Gibson, whose business concept focused on improving equine health through copper electroplating kits designed for farriers. Her product aims to protect horses’ hooves from bacterial damage. She has already begun using her concept in her own business.
Gibson’s plan includes a scalable kit-and-subscription model, allowing others across the country to adopt the technique while creating a sustainable revenue stream.
Gibson will now represent Gordon State College at the University System of Georgia’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition on April 6, where she will compete for a $25,000 prize.
Nolan Riggins of Pike County, Esereme Micheal Ikogho of Clayton County, and Timothy Caleb Manley of Pike County also shared their business concepts.
Growing Georgia’s Economy and Solving Problems
Gordon State College says this is a part of its effort to turn classroom learning into real-world problem solving while supporting Georgia’s economy.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to preparing students not only academically but professionally,” said Gordon State College President Dr. Donald Green. “By encouraging students to think creatively, solve real problems, and present their ideas with confidence, we are helping them develop the entrepreneurial mindset that today’s workforce demands.”
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
