Harrison Nastasi and Justin Iannelli, both 21 years old and hailing from Pine Hill, New Jersey, turned their side hustle into a thriving business with the launch of Bobica Bars, a brand of superfood-glazed granola bars, in 2022 while attending Rowan University. The inspiration for their venture came from personal family health challenges, particularly the need for allergy-safe snacks that provide genuine health benefits. Initially funded with $5,000 from personal savings, they participated in numerous pitch competitions, raising over $75,000 in non-dilutive funding. Their efforts paid off, leading to consistent monthly revenue of around $8,000 and aspirations to reach $1 million in annual sales. The duo credits their success to a strong network of advisors and the lessons learned from overcoming challenges, particularly in finding a reliable co-manufacturer. They are now fully committed to Bobica Bars, dedicating their time to product development and market growth while advocating for other student entrepreneurs to engage in pitch competitions for funding and mentorship.