The John Ruffatto Startup Challenge is a statewide, experiential learning event hosted annually by the University of Montana College of Business since 1989. The Startup Challenge is Montana’s premiere opportunity for students attending select colleges or universities across Montana to present exciting new businesses and/or social entrepreneurship venture ideas for adjudication. The Startup Challenge is run by the UM College of Business.

Admission is free and the live finals are open to the public. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and light appetizers and drinks will be provided. The program will run from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. in University Campus Theater on the campus of the University of Montana. More information on purchasing tickets to the event will be made available during the lead up to the event.