San Antonio, Texas, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Handidoor, a startup founded by Trinity University students, won the Louis H Stumberg Venture Competition, claiming $45,000 in total funding. Their innovative automatic door opener aims to enhance accessibility for individuals using mobility aids. The competition, which promotes entrepreneurship among students, provides opportunities for networking and mentorship. With applications for the next round now open, future entrepreneurs have the chance to showcase their ideas.
San Antonio, Texas – The student startup Handidoor emerged victorious at the 10th Annual Louis H Stumberg Venture Competition, hosted by Trinity University. This competition, which typically awards a $25,000 prize to its winner, surprised Handidoor’s team with an additional $20,000, bringing their total winnings to $45,000.
Handidoor, co-founded by Trinity University students Nathaniel Troxel and Xadrian Huerta, is dedicated to creating an accessible and mobility-friendly automatic door opening device. Troxel’s personal experiences following a car accident, which necessitated the use of mobility aids, served as the foundation for the invention. During his rehabilitation, Troxel faced difficulties in opening and closing doors while using a wheelchair, walker, and cane, fueling his desire to develop a solution.
In addition to the main prize, Handidoor received $5,000 from the initial seed round of the competition and earned an extra $500 by being named the ‘fan favorite.’ The success of Handidoor in the competition highlights the potential of innovative student-led initiatives aimed at improving accessibility in everyday life.
Applications for the next round of the Stumberg Competition are currently open, providing future entrepreneurs with the opportunity to showcase their business ideas and potentially secure funding.
Background on the Louis H Stumberg Venture Competition
The Louis H Stumberg Venture Competition is an annual event designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students. It encourages participants to develop business ideas that could lead to startup companies. The competition not only offers financial support but also provides a platform for networking and mentorship.
Key Features of Handidoor
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Automatic door opening device |
| Accessibility Focus | Designed for individuals using mobility aids |
| Co-founders | Nathaniel Troxel and Xadrian Huerta |
| Funding Achieved | $45,000 from the competition |
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event | Status/Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 15, 2023 | 10th Annual Louis H Stumberg Venture Competition | Completed |
| October 15, 2023 | Handidoor wins $45,000 | Completed |
| October 16, 2023 | Applications open for next round of the competition | Ongoing |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Handidoor?
Handidoor is a student startup that focuses on creating an accessible and mobility-friendly automatic door opening device.
Who are the co-founders of Handidoor?
The co-founders of Handidoor are Nathaniel Troxel and Xadrian Huerta, both students at Trinity University.
How much funding did Handidoor receive from the competition?
Handidoor received a total of $45,000, which includes a $25,000 prize, an additional $20,000, and $5,500 from other awards.
When is the next round of the Stumberg Competition?
Applications for the next round of the Stumberg Competition are currently open.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Student Teams Compete for $25,000 in Stumberg Venture Competition
Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Trinity University
- Trinity University News
- Google Search: Handidoor Trinity University
- San Antonio Report
- Google Scholar: Trinity University Stumberg Competition
- San Antonio Express-News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Automatic Door Device
- Texas Public Radio
- Google News: Handidoor startup win
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