Johnson C. Smith Students Compete in Video Game Tournament Teaching Business Skills

Johnson C. Smith University ran a video game contest in October. Nearly 100 students and local high schoolers learned about budgeting, profit-and-loss management, and business strategy. TD Bank and the Singleton Foundation for Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship sponsored the event at the Charlotte, North Carolina, campus.

The five-hour tournament used Venture Valley, a free multiplayer game where players launch and grow businesses from dog-walking start-ups to high-tech drone factories. Participants wrestled with cash flow crunches, investment dilemmas, and competition while racing to build the most profitable virtual empire. The event awarded $5,000 in prizes.

JCSU senior Austin Luangvitham won first place. The computer science major took home $1,000. Cameron Curtis, another JCSU student, placed second and pocketed $500, while Cory Smith, a high school student, claimed third and earned $300.

"It was a great environment, great experience — 10 out of 10. Gaming is a good way to learn about everything in general, but specifically entrepreneurship and financial literacy, because it allows you to play with money in a way that you can't really do in the real world," Austin said, according to TD Stories.

The private Historically Black College and University became the first HBCU to host a Venture Valley competition. JCSU's Innovation Center Science Building served as the location.

A recent survey of Venture Valley players found that more than 80% of students thought the game improved their understanding of entrepreneurship and financial education. Another 82% reported that it inspired them to see themselves as entrepreneurs.

"When students see classroom concepts play out in real time, it sticks," said John Cash, an esports and gaming instructor at the school. "That's how learning becomes transformational."

Participants also talked with TD Bank colleagues. They offered guidance on careers, shared details about internships at the bank, and answered questions about starting a business. All participants received a gift.

"Financial education is foundational for lifelong success. We believe every student deserves access to the tools to be financially confident," said Amber Tofilon, Head of U.S. Sustainability at TD Bank.

The bank offers free resources for youth, adults, business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Through partnerships with Delaware State, Howard, Rutgers, Villanova, and Michigan State Universities, the bank provides workforce readiness workshops and recruits top talent.