HUMBOLDT – Students from Marmaton Valley and Humboldt high schools showed off their business acumen Wednesday.
The students were taking part in the Allen County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, bringing together aspiring young business owners from the Humboldt and Marmaton Valley School Districts.
The event, funded in partnership with K-State Research and Extension Southwind District, Allen County E-Communities and Network Kansas, allowed students to showcase their entrepreneurial talents and business ideas.
Eight students were tasked with writing an executive summary, delivering a formal four-minute presentation and setting up a trade show booth to present their business concepts to the public.
The competition was judged by a panel of local volunteers who evaluated the students based on their business ideas, presentations and overall concept development.
Marmaton Valley’s Kaden McVey took home first place and the $1,000 grand prize for McVey Honey.
Humboldt’s Colden Cook and Kyler Isbell teamed up to take second and $500 for Door Doctor.
Harlie Cook of Marmaton Valley took third and $300 for Suds and Scents.
Other winners were Jaryt Hess, who was recognized for having the best executive summary for Manly Melts. Harlie Cook also was named the trade show winner.
“Participating in the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge helps students think critically, evaluate business opportunities, and learn how to effectively communicate their ideas,” said Amanda Clasen, Community Vitality Agent for Southwind District. “We’re proud to offer young people a chance to develop skills that are crucial not just for entrepreneurs but for success in any field.”
The event provided a unique opportunity for the students to develop valuable skills such as confidence, communication and presentation techniques, she added, all of which are essential in the business world.
As the first-place winner, McVey will represent Allen County in the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge on April 17 in Manhattan.
