We are proud to announce that Shoe Shields was awarded 3rd Place in the Consumer Goods & Services Track of the 2026 New Venture Competition hosted by The George Washington University! 

As part of this recognition, Shoe Shields received a $5,000 cash prize to support our continued development and growth. In addition, we were selected to receive $15,000 in in-kind legal services from Blank Rome, a full-service nationwide law firm that has long supported the GW New Venture Competition. The legal support will provide valuable guidance as Shoe Shields progresses and grows.

Throughout the competition, the judges consistently recognized Shoe Shields for addressing a clear and under-served need within the soccer market. Judges praised the company’s simple yet innovative solution and emphasized the evident latent demand for a product that helps athletes keep their feet warm in cold weather. Judges also expressed excitement about Shoe Shields’ long-term growth potential, pointing out the ease with which we could eventually expand into other cleat-based sports with minimal redesigns.

Several judges highlighted our personal connection to the problem, noting that it strengthens our credibility and understanding of our target customers. Our deep connections within the local soccer community was viewed as a major advantage for building awareness and driving early adoption, particularly through partnerships with tournaments, leagues, clubs, and schools. Overall, judges described Shoe Shields as a compelling concept with a strong presentation, clear customer understanding, and significant room for future growth.

We are thrilled to have been recognized in this year’s New Venture Competition and are incredibly grateful for all of the support we received throughout the process. We would especially like to thank the staff of the GW Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, led by Bob Smith, for organizing such an impactful program and providing invaluable guidance along the way. We are also deeply thankful to our mentors, Greg Miller and Greg Wong, whose advice and encouragement greatly strengthened both our business model and presentation. Finally, we sincerely appreciate the judges who took the time to provide thoughtful and constructive feedback after each round of the competition.

We would also like to congratulate all of the other winners and participants in this year’s New Venture Competition. We look forward to seeing their brilliant ideas continue to grow and come to fruition!