At Ranch House Designs, we believe in giving back to the next generation of rural entrepreneurs—and few events align with that mission more than Texas A&M University’s Entrepreneurial Dreams Contest. This spring, our founder and CEO, Rachel Cutrer, proudly served as a judge and mentor for the 2025 competition, hosted by the Department of Agricultural Economics and sponsored by Texas Farm Credit.
The Entrepreneurial Dreams Contest showcases the creativity, grit, and innovation of students building businesses designed to serve rural America. From agriculture tech startups to direct-to-consumer beef programs, the ideas presented are real-world, student-driven, and packed with potential. Students participate in an intensive financial analysis of their proposed business, and undergo 2 days of rigorous judging, business pitches, and presentations.
Rachel’s involvement in this program goes far beyond event day. As a graduate of Texas A&M herself, she returns each fall as a guest professor, speaking to students about branding, business building, and digital marketing strategies in rural sectors. Throughout the academic year, she also serves as a mentor—meeting with students one-on-one to help refine their business plans, sharpen their pitches, and prepare for success.
“These students are the future of rural America,” Rachel says. “They’re smart, driven, and ready to tackle big challenges—and it’s an honor to help guide them and share what I’ve learned through Ranch House and our other businesses.”
As a judge in the final competition, Rachel joined a panel of industry leaders to evaluate the students’ presentations, provide feedback, and help select this year’s winners. The panel judged entries based on innovation, business viability, market strategy, and potential impact in rural communities.
Rachel’s continued involvement with Texas A&M’s agricultural entrepreneurship initiatives reflects one of Ranch House’s core values: supporting the growth and sustainability of rural America through education, mentorship, and strategic innovation.
To the next generation of ranchers, marketers, and rural business owners—know that we’re cheering for you, and we’re here to help.