News – Sheridan Media
Energy Capital Economic Development (ECED) and Gillette College announced the five finalists for the third annual $50,000 Energy Capital Start-Up Challenge. Two of the five finalists are from Sheridan. Daniel and Jenny Berens, created and patented Hen Hub, a smart-home device for backyard chicken coops that allows homeowners to vacation without worry that their hens will be well cared for. Jereme Rittenhouse started JR’s Heating and Cooling, an HVAC company, and developed a maintenance agreement program with a focus on improving air quality and reliability of the equipment for residential and commercial customers.
The other three finalists include Jot That LLC, a subscription-based, browser-based note-taking application created by Timothy Keith, that is designed to be a superior alternative to existing solutions on the market. Trevor O’Rourke wants to develop Salvage Co, a community-driven warehouse and tool library where residents can donate, shop, and reuse building materials, appliances, and large furniture instead of it going to the local landfill. Stumpy’s Speed Shop, Steven Stumpf, wants to start a repair business focusing on race prep, suspension maintenance and tuning, general maintenance and engine repair on off-road motorcycles with hopes to expand to a mobile suspension service.
The finalists will now progress to the Energy Start-Up Challenge Pitch Night, where they will compete for the $50,000 seed fund established for the event. Pitch Night will be held on Tuesday, November 11th, 5:30 PM, at the Gillette College Old Main Presentation Hall, 300 West Sinclair Street in Gillette. The event is free and open to the public.
Livestreaming of the program by a crew from the City of Gillette will be available – a link will be published in the few days leading up to November 11th. A reception will follow the five presentations, and the three winners will be announced at the reception.
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Last modified: October 18, 2025