Fox Cities News

Chaewon Yoon, a computer science major at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh (UWO), secured the top spot in the Culver Business Model Competition with her innovative project, Curb Map. This AI-powered platform is designed to convert 2D images and drawings into high-precision 3D models, improving raw sketches to professional standards. The idea incorporates advanced conversion techniques and a unique refinement model.

Yoon's inspiration for Curb Map stemmed from her volunteer work during her childhood in Vienna, Austria. She explained, “During that period, I started to recognize how many everyday spaces are difficult to navigate—not because people lack ability, but because our environments aren’t designed to be accessible.” This realization led to the creation of Curb Map 360.

Her victory at the competition awarded her $3,000 in prize money, which was doubled by judge and UWO alumnus Craig Culver, along with in-kind donations. Yoon also participated in other business pitch events like Fox Valley of the Pitch and the WiSys Big Idea Tournament.

In second place was Jhanik Posnanski, a business management student who pitched Zin Tin—a solution aimed at reducing nicotine pouch littering. Posnanski received $1,500 in prize money and will join Yoon at Fox Valley of the Pitch.

Emma Hady secured third place with her project Haddy RB Southdowns. An education major focusing on show-sheep breeding stock and direct-market freezer lambs, Hady earned $500 as well as additional support from Craig Culver.