Halloween weekend, universities from several states sent teams of business students to St. Louis to compete in the 2025 CUIBE International Business Case Competition hosted by UMSL’s Ed G. Smith College of Business. This was the 12th year UMSL has hosted the event, providing an excellent opportunity for undergraduates to gain real-life problem-solving experience with successful companies. 

Students were presented with a current challenge faced by a real company and tasked with presenting a team solution to a panel of renowned judges. Every individual received a participation certificate and top qualifiers earned cash prizes.

This year’s client was the food re-distribution company Dot Foods, who requested proposals for strategic media plans that could strengthen their brand awareness among executives in retail and manufacturing. Each team had unique ideas and interpretations on how to approach the task. According to  UMSL’s International Business Club President and competition participant, Ah’Reishia Stanley, the presentations created a professional and competitive atmosphere. The beautiful visuals and in-depth explanations of the solution’s math and methodology displayed the hard work each team put into the competition. 

Every past competition’s top teams are listed on UMSL’s website. This year features an exciting addition of UMSL’s own team, ranked third! 

It is undeniable that the CUIBE Case Competition is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for diverse students to network with peers and experts in a variety of business fields, while also enhancing teamwork and presentation skills. According to Ah’Reishia, competing in the event has assisted her in conquering her fear of public speaking, as well as creating a shared sense of “camaraderie with [her] teammates: Brian, Drashti and Kimberly.” 

More information about the event can be found on UMSL’s website and through the International Business Club on Triton Connect.