Bemidji State University’s American Indigenous Business Leaders (AIBL) team achieved first place in the university division of the Business Plan Competition at the National Business & Leadership Student Conference this month.

The winning team included students Justin Keezer from Waubun, MN; Dax Anderson from Red Lake, MN; Nathaniel McDonald from Bemidji, MN; Carter Eckblad from Bemidji, MN; Mia Wilke from Belcourt, ND; Joshua Briski, Jr. from Cass Lake, MN and Caitlyn Lueck from Cass Lake, MN.

They were guided by mentor Robert “Bob” Tessier, a senior manager in hot beverages at Sodexo Supply Management, who was connected to them through AIBL and provided valuable support throughout the competition.

Their success highlights their dedication, innovation and leadership in business planning.