DANBURY, CONN. —Three Western Connecticut State University students recently were named finalists in the fall semester phase of the 2007-08 Connecticut Collegiate Business Plan Competition.

Kimberly Cantone, of Carmel, N.Y., Sharon Loomis, of Ridgefield, and Jacqueline Lopes, of New Milford, were among 14 finalists selected from 33 students at eight universities who submitted small business and venture enterprise plans in the statewide competition. Associate Professor of Management Dr. Fred Maidment served as faculty adviser for all three projects.

The small-business plans presented by the WestConn students were chosen based on favorable prospects for a successful launch and positive contributions to economic development. The submissions included “Campus Cleaners,” by Cantone; “The Crepe Co.,” by Loomis; and “Shorty’s Barber Shop,” by Lopes.

Participants were invited to attend a meeting of the Connecticut Venture Group (CVG), a nonprofit venture capitalist association, to discuss business planning with experienced entrepreneurs and investors. CVG president David Sturgess said student submissions this year “were among the best we have seen, and reflect the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit critical to maintaining Connecticut’s economic vitality.” Sponsors for the competition include the CVG, the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, the Apple Picker’s Foundation, Connecticut Innovations and the Entrepreneurship Foundation.

For information, call the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.

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Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York.

 Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics

 of New England’s best small private universities.