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Elliott Notrica '26 Recognized by National Entrepreneurship Program

March 17, 2023

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Biochemistry major Elliott Notrica '26 is one of the youngest of 23 entrepreneurs in the nation selected to participate in the 2023 Future Founders Fellowship program. 

As part of the fellowship cohort, Notrica will take part in a year-long development program which includes mentoring, skill development and entrepreneurship retreats. He will also have access to a vibrant peer community and unique volunteer opportunities.  

Future Founders is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to build the largest inclusive community of intentional young entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial-minded leaders. 

“It's a tremendous honor to be selected to join this incredible group of entrepreneurs,”

Elliott Notrica '26 sautees food at a cooking station
Biochemistry major Elliott Notrica '26 started the consulting business Symbio Bioculinary to educate food companies on how to reduce food waste through fermentation. Photo courtesy of Symbio Bioculinary.

Notrica said. “The cohort is an incredibly diverse group from all over the U.S. and from across industries, and I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone.”

As a first-year college student, Notrica has already established his own business, Symbio Bioculinary, which offers consulting services to food companies on how to reduce food waste through fermentation by creating vinegars, misos, preserves, hot sauces and beverages.

The idea for Symbio Bioculinary came to Notrica after he witnessed large amounts of food waste while working in the food service industry, adding that “over 35% of food in the U.S. is wasted, largely due to its perishable nature, making it subject to rot."

According to its website , Symbio “​​ blends new science with traditional techniques to make delicious food that’s better for people, the planet and our future.” Symbio also publishes free and open access to their research on food science.   

Notrica’s work with Symbio Bioculinary also earned him a grant in 2022 through the Titan New Venture Challenge, managed by Director of The Petrick Idea Center John Quarton. 

“I am extremely happy to see a first-year Illinois Wesleyan student recognized for this prestigious program for 18- to 30-year-old entrepreneurs,” Quarton said. “This just goes to

show the caliber of innovators and entrepreneurs we attract to Illinois Wesleyan.”

Notrica said he is looking forward to connecting with other young entrepreneurs in the cohort while attending workshops and developing leadership skills.

“While it's validating to be one of the youngest selected for such a well-respected program, I also feel the responsibility to work with increased focus and determination,” he said.

Elliott Notrica '26 presents on stage during Illinois Wesleyan's Titan New Venture Challenge
Elliott Notrica '26 presents on his entrepreneurial idea during the fall 2022 Titan New Venture Challenge at Hansen Student Center.

Illinois Wesleyan University students with entrepreneurial ideas are encouraged to participate in the upcoming Titan New Venture Challenge, which will take place at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 22, in Hansen Student Center. The program provides up to $5,000 in seed grant funding for students from all majors seeking to kick start a new product, service or venture. The deadline to apply is Sunday, March 19. Apply here and learn more in the participation guide .