UVU alumnus and Nectar co-founder Trevor Larson returned to Utah Valley University's Woodbury School of Business to share hard-earned lessons with students on entrepreneurship, failure, fundraising, and the principles that helped him develop a thriving tech company from the ground up.
Trevor Larson, a UVU alumnus and current member of the Woodbury School of Business (WSB) Board, shared a relatable and candid perspective on building a company through both failure and growth.
Larson graduated from Utah Valley University in 2018 with a degree in business administration and management. His path was not initially focused on entrepreneurship — he began with plans to pursue a pre-dental career before shifting into business through hands-on experience, including running a car detailing company. Through networking and conversations, including connections with industry leaders, he eventually entered the tech and sales world, which helped shape his long-term goals.
While still a student, Larson co-founded a startup called PerkNow, which initially found success after winning a university startup competition. However, the company struggled with sustainability and long-term value, forcing Larson and his co-founders to pivot. That experience ultimately led to the creation of Nectar in 2020, a company focused on improving employee experience.
Larson shared how early failure played a critical role in shaping his approach to building Nectar. At one point, he and his team turned down a multimillion-dollar acquisition offer, choosing instead to bet on themselves and continue building. Since then, Nectar has raised over $50 million in capital and grown to more than 150 employees.
Throughout the lecture, Larson connected with students by reflecting on his time sitting in the same classrooms just a few years prior. He emphasized that success is rarely linear and is often built through persistence, learning, and the willingness to adapt.
Larson shared several key principles that have guided his journey: dream big, take opportunities when they arise, take ownership of your path, and commit to continuous learning. He encouraged students to become "learning machines," constantly improving their skills and mindset.
Larson closed by emphasizing the importance of human connection, noting that while technology continues to evolve, personal relationships remain one of the most valuable and irreplaceable aspects of business.
The Woodbury School of Business thanks Trevor Larson for sharing his experience and
perspective with UVU students. His message reinforced the value of resilience, adaptability,
and building the confidence needed to pursue ambitious goals.
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Watch Trevor's full lecture below.
