Rutherford, N.J. –  Felician University Junior and Business Administration major, Nico Quiroz has secured a deal with the University to sell Fidget Keys, an innovative product he co-founded to bring a fresh, engaging twist to traditional college merchandise. The university Marketing Department has placed its first order of 250 Fidget Keys, supporting Nico’s student-run business and providing a platform for hands-on entrepreneurial learning and innovation on campus.  

Over the last two summers, Nico and his friend Jeremy noticed that university admissions departments often handed out traditional merchandise like pencils and erasers to prospective students. They felt these items failed to stand out, which inspired them to create a product that was both exciting and practical. The result was Fidget Keys, a simple, engaging tool that mimics everyday habits, like fidgeting with keys, but with intentional design and appeal.

Nico and his friend-turned-business partner first created a prototype for Fidget Keys at a Vector Marketing conference, where they had worked together the past two summers to gain experience and present this product. After receiving positive feedback from Vector Marketing and Sacred Heart University, his business partner’s first independent sale, Nico realized this idea was more than a prototype; it was a potential product for colleges and universities to integrate into their merchandise rotation for the foreseeable future.  

“The biggest challenge has been rejection,” he said regarding the difficulties of entrepreneurship as a student. “A lot of people don’t take you seriously as a college student, even when you’re emailing other college admissions offices.” Despite this, Nico has remained optimistic about pursuing this business endeavor, all while juggling classes and a rigorous practice and game schedule. He devotes an hour each day to focus on his business, corresponding with other schools and companies to pitch his product.  

When asked about his cultural background, Nico reflected, “Although I’ve grown up in the U.S., my family’s roots in Costa Rica and Chile have given me a deeper appreciation for my heritage. That’s why attending an HSI and emphasizing Hispanic culture played a significant role in my decision to attend Felician University.”  

Nico’s father, a first-generation college student and business owner, was credited as a key figure in Nico’s adaptation of the entrepreneurial mindset. He hopes to take what he’s learned at Felician and in his journey with Fidget Keys to leave a lasting impact on the way colleges can improve their brand visibility during giveaways or open houses. 

Nico envisions a bright future for Fidget Key, anticipating that over the next 10 to 20 years, colleges across the U.S. will recognize and embrace the brand. After graduation, he plans to pursue law school and embark on new endeavors towards his personal career goals.