June 12, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Runwayz Clinches Grand Prize at 25th Anniversary McCloskey New Venture Competition
South Bend, IN — May 15, 2025 — Runwayz, an innovative AI-powered career platform, has won the top honor at the 25th Annual McCloskey New Venture Competition hosted by the University of Notre Dame IDEA Center. This milestone event saw participation from a record 137 startups competing for prestige, cash awards, and investor attention.
Developed by Notre Dame alumni and backed by ESTEEM Graduate Program support, Runwayz harnesses artificial intelligence to deliver personalized career guidance and actively match job seekers with opportunities. The platform’s holistic approach to career readiness impressed a distinguished panel of judges, including angel investors, venture capitalists, and startup experts.
The 25th‑annual competition featured two rounds of high‑energy pitches—first, a startup showcase and then a final pitch—with Runwayz rising to the top to receive the grand prize. The award was presented by Teresa Covarrubias, an ESTEEM student intern with Runwayz, to Chief Revenue Officer Mike Haarlander and CTO Jonathan P.—both alumni of Notre Dame.
“Winning at McCloskey is a remarkable validation of our mission to empower job seekers with AI-driven tools,” said Haarlander. “We’re grateful to Notre Dame, our mentors, and the entire IDEA Center community for their support.”
In addition to the grand prize, the competition recognized excellence across multiple categories, honoring ventures such as Routora, Pi Squared, DressyClub, and Vectorgram Health—a testament to the diverse and impactful innovations emerging from the University of Notre Dame ecosystem.
About Runwayz
Runwayz is on a mission to reshape career exploration and job placement through AI-powered insights and personalized job matching. Founded by Notre Dame alumni, the company aims to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity with scalable, intelligent solutions.
About the McCloskey New Venture Competition
Established by the IDEA Center in 2001, the McCloskey New Venture Competition supports student-led startups across disciplines. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, the event serves as a platform for emerging entrepreneurs to receive mentorship, pitch to investors, and gain visibility.
Media Contact:
David Proulx
CEO
Runwayz Communications
David.Proulx@Runwayz.com
