Ivy Tech Fort Wayne Awards New Venture Champion
(photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Comm
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA Fort Wayne manufacturer that created a tool for CNC machining shops took home top honors from 2019 New Venture Competition, hosted by Ivy Tech Community College Fort Wayne. Matt Anderson, founder of Anderson Manufacturing Inc., received $20,000 for his business.
Anderson Manufacturing Inc. specializes in the design and manufacturing of a “holding solution” called the Sierra Jaw. Anderson says the jaw allows machine shops to begin the machining process right away without the need to design specialized and complicated fixtures to hold parts during the manufacturing.
Anderson says his device helps small to medium machine shops remain competitive against larger manufacturing companies.
Anderson says with the $20,000 the New Venture Competition, he can expand operations by increasing his marketing budget and purchasing equipment that can help increase production.
“It means everything to have won this competition,” says Anderson. “Everything about entrepreneurship is incredibly difficult, and it can feel like all the odds are against you. But to have people who are willing to fund your company and invest in the future of entrepreneurship is incredibly special.”
He started the company in May 2018. Since then, it has sold more than 300 sets of Sierra Jaws.
Anderson beat out two other finalists in the pitch competition including a video production company and a startup barbeque company.