The University of Vermont has named Matthew McPherson, a high school entrepreneur from Flemington, New Jersey, the winner of the 2025 Vermont Pitch Challenge, a Shark Tank-like competition for teens. Matthew McPherson was awarded the competition’s top prize – a full-tuition scholarship to the University of Vermont – for his business venture, Boxer Breeze, after presenting his innovative plan to a panel of judges at UVM. Matthew, a high school senior, will be attending the University of Vermont this fall.
Boxer Breeze is an eco-friendly underwear brand that combats textile waste by using sustainable materials like bamboo fiber and organic cotton. The business plan also implements a closed-loop recycling system, where customers can return used pairs for discounts on future purchases, promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.
“This opportunity has been one of the most life changing things to ever happen to me,” said McPherson. “Any of the finalists could have won today and to have this feeling of being in first place and being a winner in this amazing competition is something I’ll hold near me forever.”
The Vermont Pitch Challenge is a unique competition that empowers high school students from around the world to pitch their most innovative business ideas for the chance to win scholarships and cash prizes by presenting their ventures in a live pitch event at UVM. The competition aims to support young entrepreneurs who are focused on solving real-world challenges through creative, impactful solutions.
“We are thrilled to see the entrepreneurial spirit and vision from Matthew,” said Jay Jacobs, UVM Vice Provost for Enrollment Management. “His business plan not only addresses the critical issue of textile waste but also demonstrates a scalable and sustainable approach that can make a significant impact on both the fashion industry and the environment.”
“The Vermont Pitch Challenge is such a great opportunity for students to not only showcase their innovative ideas but also to receive feedback from peers who share the same passion for innovation,” said Logan Vaughan, a student judge and president of the UVM Entrepreneurship Club. “It's been inspiring to see the passion and creativity this year’s finalists bring to the table, and I can't wait to watch them turn their ideas into reality.”
This year’s competition saw more than 140 teams from 15 countries and 28 U.S. states submit business ideas. After extensive evaluation, five finalist teams were invited to present their pitches in person at UVM on April 3.
The winners of the 2025 Vermont Pitch Challenge are:
1st Place – Boxer Breeze
Matthew McPherson (Hunterdon Central Regional High School, Flemington, NJ) – Full tuition scholarship to UVM
Boxer Breeze is an eco-friendly underwear brand that combats textile waste by using sustainable materials like bamboo fiber and organic cotton. The company also implements a closed-loop recycling system, where customers can return used pairs for discounts on future purchases.
2nd Place – OceanAble
Claire Teany (Medfield High School, Medfield, MA) – $5,000 prize
OceanAble designs adaptive surfboards for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to surf independently. The company incorporates sustainability by using reclaimed ocean plastics in its surfboard designs, addressing both accessibility and environmental concerns.
3rd Place – MIND (Maximizing Inclusion for Neurodivergent Development)
Eleanor O’Brien, Penelope O’Brien, and Hardy Payson (Thetford Academy, Thetford Center, VT) – $5,000 prize
MIND provides a comprehensive support system for neurodivergent individuals transitioning from high school to higher education or the workforce through workshops, mentorship, and training.
4th Place – RespiraGel
Jamie Cheng (Green Level High School, Cary, NC) – $1,000 prize
RespiraGel is an innovative, affordable hydrogel-based powder that protects against allergens and pollutants. It is designed for individuals with respiratory conditions and aims to improve respiratory health on a global scale, with plans for clinical trials and prototype development.
5th Place – Yard 2 Yum
Reya Kannan (Chelmsford High School, Chelmsford, MA) – $1,000 prize
Yard 2 Yum reduces food waste by partnering with restaurants and rewarding them with “produce points” for diverting waste from landfills. These points can be redeemed for discounts on locally sourced produce, promoting both sustainability and local economic growth.
The Vermont Pitch Challenge provides high school students with a unique opportunity to make their college applications stand out by showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit. Participants will build valuable skills that today’s employers seek, including problem-solving, innovation, and communication. The competition offers a chance to receive insightful feedback on business ideas from experienced judges and entrepreneurial experts, helping students refine and strengthen their ventures. By participating, students also challenge themselves to make a lasting impact on their community and beyond.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Vermont Pitch Challenge will open for submissions in October 2025, with the final pitch event scheduled for April 2026. For more information about the Vermont Pitch Challenge and how to participate, visit uvm.edu/admissions/vermont-pitch-challenge.
