New Albany, Indiana, November 25, 2025
Proper Pilots Inc., a flight training technology company, secured an $8,000 non-dilutive grant at the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition held at Indiana University Southeast. The event, aimed at supporting innovative startups, showcased multiple finalists, with Proper Pilots standing out due to its modern platform improving flight training processes. The competition, organized by IU Southeast School of Business, highlighted local entrepreneurial spirit and community support for economic growth in Southern Indiana.
New Albany, Indiana – Proper Pilots Inc. Secures $8,000 Grant at Next Big Thing Pitch Competition
Proper Pilots Inc., a flight training technology company, has been awarded an $8,000 non-dilutive grant at the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition held at Indiana University Southeast on November 19, 2025. The competition aims to support innovative startups by providing funding and resources to accelerate their growth.
Competition Overview
The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition is an annual event that brings together entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to a panel of judges. This year’s competition featured several finalists, including Proper Pilots Inc., Lead to Love, A Servant’s Heart, DINO, LLC, and Purple Shamrock Farm. The event was organized by the IU Southeast School of Business, with support from the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) and Duke Energy.
Proper Pilots Inc.’s Achievement
Proper Pilots Inc. stood out among the finalists by offering a modern platform that connects flight students, instructors, and schools. Their solution streamlines scheduling, tracks training progress, and enhances accountability, aiming to replace outdated systems and improve graduation rates, instructor compensation, and aircraft utilization.
Event Highlights
The competition began with the Fast Pitch category, where finalists presented their business concepts. Proper Pilots Inc.’s innovative approach to flight training earned them the first-place award of $8,000. The event also featured a guest speaker, Lisa Brones Huber from Duke Energy, and recognized previous winners, such as Donald Ridings, founder of Fat of the Land.
Support for Entrepreneurs
The IU Southeast School of Business plays a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship in the region. Dr. Aycan Kara, Associate Professor of Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship, emphasized the importance of such events in building momentum for sustainable growth and opportunity across Southern Indiana and the Louisville metro area.
About Proper Pilots Inc.
Proper Pilots Inc. is dedicated to revolutionizing flight training by providing a comprehensive platform that integrates various aspects of the training process. Their goal is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of flight education, benefiting students, instructors, and flight schools alike.
About the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition
The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition is an annual event hosted by the IU Southeast School of Business. It aims to support and promote innovative startups by providing them with the opportunity to showcase their business ideas to a panel of judges and compete for funding and resources to accelerate their growth.
About IU Southeast School of Business
The IU Southeast School of Business is committed to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses. Through events like the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition, the school provides resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop and grow their ventures, contributing to the economic development of the region.
About Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC)
The Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) offers resources and support to small businesses across Indiana. They provide confidential business advising, training, and resources to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their businesses.
About Duke Energy
Duke Energy is a leading energy company in the United States, providing electricity and natural gas to customers across several states. They are committed to supporting communities and fostering economic development through various initiatives and partnerships.
About Fat of the Land
Fat of the Land is a previous winner of the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition. Founded by Donald Ridings, the company focuses on sustainable agriculture and food production, aiming to provide healthy and locally sourced food options to communities.
About Lead to Love
Lead to Love is a finalist in the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition. The company is dedicated to providing leadership development programs for young adults, focusing on personal growth, community engagement, and social responsibility.
About A Servant’s Heart
A Servant’s Heart is a finalist in the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition. The organization offers services to support individuals in need, including food assistance, housing support, and educational resources, with a focus on empowering communities through service and compassion.
About DINO, LLC
DINO, LLC is a finalist in the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition. The company specializes in innovative solutions for the construction industry, aiming to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability through advanced technology and design.
About Purple Shamrock Farm
Purple Shamrock Farm is a finalist in the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition. The farm focuses on organic and sustainable farming practices, providing fresh produce and educational programs to promote healthy living and environmental stewardship.
About Lisa Brones Huber
Lisa Brones Huber is the Government and Community Relations Manager at Duke Energy. She has been involved in various community initiatives and has a strong background in supporting economic development and community engagement efforts.
About Donald Ridings
Donald Ridings is the founder of Fat of the Land, a company that focuses on sustainable agriculture and food production. He has been recognized for his innovative approach to farming and his commitment to providing healthy food options to communities.
About Dr. Aycan Kara
Dr. Aycan Kara is an Associate Professor of Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship at the IU Southeast School of Business. She is dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses through education and community engagement.
Conclusion
As demonstrated by the success of Proper Pilots Inc. at the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition, the entrepreneurial spirit in New Albany and the surrounding areas is alive and thriving. This event not only highlights the resilience of local startups but also emphasizes the importance of community support and investments in fostering a prosperous environment for businesses. Residents are encouraged to engage with and support these innovative ventures that are driving Kentucky’s economic growth.
FAQ
What is Proper Pilots Inc.?
Proper Pilots Inc. is a flight training technology company dedicated to revolutionizing flight training by providing a comprehensive platform that integrates various aspects of the training process.
What did Proper Pilots Inc. achieve at the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition?
Proper Pilots Inc. was awarded an $8,000 non-dilutive grant at the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition held at Indiana University Southeast.
What is the purpose of the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition?
The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition aims to support innovative startups by providing them with the opportunity to showcase their business ideas to a panel of judges and compete for funding and resources to accelerate their growth.
Who organized the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition?
The event was organized by the IU Southeast School of Business, with support from the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) and Duke Energy.
How does the IU Southeast School of Business support entrepreneurs?
Through events like the Next Big Thing Pitch Competition, the IU Southeast School of Business provides resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop and grow their ventures, contributing to the economic development of the region.
What role does the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) play?
The Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) offers resources and support to small businesses across Indiana, including confidential business advising and training.
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