Finance/Real Estate Competitions
Put your finance and real estate knowledge to the test!
Academic competitions play an essential part in learning for students. Participation offers a unique opportunity for students to use the knowledge they have gained in the classroom and apply it to real-work situations. These competitions are great for building skills, including leadership, teamwork and communication. They can also be a great way to make new connections and friends. If you want to further your education and knowledge, consider signing up for an academic competition today.
NAIOP Commercial Real Estate Development Association Minnesota Chapter University Challenge
Brett Olsen, Professor of Finance
(319) 273-2396
NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, hosts this competition for real estate students each year. Student teams act as development consultants and present their most feasible highest and best-use solutions to a real estate challenge, such as new site development or redevelopment of commercial real estate. The subject property could involve office, retail, multi-family, hospitality, entertainment, industrial, or a combination of these uses.
Community Bank Case Study Competition
Ronnie Chen, Associate Professor of Finance
319-273-6067
Community banks are responsible for approximately 45% of small business loans and three-fourths of agriculture lending in the U.S. The Conference of State Bank Supervisors (CSBS) organizes the Community Bank Case Study Competition and selects a different topic each year. Through the study of a local community bank in the competition, students will engage in an experiential learning opportunity that will allow them to network with local banks, CSBS staff, and academics. It is a great opportunity for students to gain first-hand knowledge of the banking industry and practice what they have learned in the classroom.
CFA Institute Research Challenge
Brett Olsen, Professor of Finance
(319) 273-2396
This challenge is an annual competition that provides students with intensive training in financial analysis and professional ethics. Student teams are tested on their analytical, valuation, report writing, and presentation skills. Students, mentored by UNI faculty and a CFA alum, gain real-world experience as they assume the role of a research analyst. The competition starts locally against other Iowa institutions, and winners continue to regional contests.