The national nonprofit Council for Opportunity in Education and Nucleus announced today the ten student teams or finalists, and five alternates, in their nationwide virtual competition to allow young entrepreneurs to pitch business ideas for scholarships and prize money.
The competition took place on Zoom Saturday, April 23, from noon to 2 pm ET. The students were able to compete as a team with up to four members or as one individual.
Two of the finalists are Upward Bound participants at Kansas State University Salina, Anahi Sanchez, and Natalie Sanchez. Their winning business idea is The Seedman. They had the chance to present before a review panel of five judges, answering questions about the business model, growth potential, and finance ideas.
All finalists will compete in two separate age groups for first, second, and third place awards in each category. One category is for students aged 13-15; the other is for students aged 16 and above. The contest will disperse prizes totaling $6,500.
The competition was limited to students in Federal TRIO programs and the GEAR UP program. TRIO programs help first-generation, low-income, or students with disabilities prepare for, enter, and graduate from college. GEAR UP, a college readiness program, operates from grades 7 to 12.
Winners in college may apply funds to tuition, fees, and books or use the money for business efforts. Those who apply the awards to their businesses will receive additional mentorship and advice.
“The most important thing that TRIO students can learn is that their potential is limitless. That’s why the Council was delighted to partner with Nucleus on this student pitch competition,” said Maureen Hoyler, president of COE.
“Hosting this pitch competition with COE furthered our mission to enhance education through activity-based learning,” said James Prince, director of TRIO partnerships at Nucleus. “Our goal is for each TRIO student to graduate with a degree and develop the skills and knowledge needed to achieve financial success.”
Upward Bound is a campus-based TRIO program designed to assist area high school students with additional academic preparation, advisement, and encouragement to succeed in high school and later in college.
The Upward Bound Program participants are involved in the program from when they are selected for participation until they graduate from high school. The program offers a six-week summer residential component and Saturday sessions during the academic year. Students must meet family income guidelines and/or be first-generation college-bound.
Upward Bound is a program within the Office of Student Success, and there is no cost for participation.