MADISON, Wis. — Olivia Wegner’s love for cats and helping them travel comfortably won the Madison College 2026 Challenge competition with her portable kitty litter box, KittyGo.
Wegner, a Madison College Business and Economics graduate, took home the $5,000 prize during the April 30 competition at the Truax campus.
This year’s eight participants impressed judges with their creativity, preparation and willingness to step outside their comfort zones. The event allowed entrepreneurs who are current or former Madison College students to share ideas, develop professional skills and engage with the business community while exploring future educational and career pathways.
2026 Madison College Pitch winners
1st Place ($5,000): Olivia Wegner – KittyGo
2nd Place ($3,000): Chase Ignatius – FlyHigh CI LLC
3rd Place ($2,000): Cesar Bonilla-Torres – Clean Eyes Detailing
4th Place ($1,000): Rhiannon Kunesh – Soul to Summit
5th Place ($750): Alex Devaux – Novel Motion Circus
6th Place ($500): Katy Brunette – Lucky Crow
7th Place ($250): Nate Aeilts – The Kingdom Fantastic
8th Place ($100): Danielle Semenek – Lavender Line Studios
The Madison College Challenge connects participants with mentorship, professional guidance, funding opportunities and community support.
The competition gave Cesar Bonilla-Torres renewed confidence. “This Challenge meant a lot to me because it showed me that my business has real potential. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and grow as an entrepreneur,” Bonilla-Torres said.
Volunteer judges from Summit Credit Union, Cleary Building Corp., Findorff, StartingBlock, and Madison Gas & Electric provided valuable feedback and encouragement to participants throughout the final pitch competition.
The Center for Entrepreneurship hosts the popular annual Madison College Challenge competition to help individuals take meaningful steps toward launching and growing their businesses. The Center also offers workshops and professional advice to area entrepreneurs.
To learn more, visit the Madison College Center for Entrepreneurship webpage, email entrepreneurcenter@madisoncollege.edu, or call 608-246-6115.
