|
 The
Heartland STEM & Business department conducted the Elevating
Entrepreneurs competition as the Spring semester came to a close.
Originally designed to take place in-person, the contest’s
organizers, contestants, and judges interacted in a virtual setting
as finalists pitched their business ideas.
After submitting a business plan, feasibility study, financial plan,
and video elevator pitch, Heartland students Cintia Arias, Michaela
Lahr, Roxanne Reed, Micayla Webster, and Carrie Woggon were all
chosen as finalists to compete and present their businesses to a
panel of local entrepreneur judges.
First place went to Micayla Webster for Mutt Mess Pet Waste Removal,
a service for busy people and folks with mobility issues to help
with cleaning after pets.
Second place went to Carrie Woggon for Queen Bee Candle Works, her
business making environmentally friendly candle products.
For coming in first and second place, Webster and Woggon received
$2,000 and $1,000, respectively, to put their business plans into
action. Awards are funded by the Heartland Community College
Foundation.
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The panel of judges included Justin Bellas of Bellas Landscaping
and Lil’ Beaver Brewery, Donny Bounds of Donny B’s Gourmet Popcorn, Ryan Curtis
of The Shrimp Farm and Central Illinois Limo Service, Melissa Larson of CPG
Printing and Graphics, and Chad Parker of Cybernautics.
“This event allowed students to share their ideas and get exposure for their
businesses,” said HCC Professor of Accounting Paul Kelson. “Everyone did an
outstanding job and we really can’t thank our community judges enough for
sharing their expertise with our students creating a true real-world teaching
experience for them.”
The final competition was held on Thursday, April 29.
[Steve Fast
Director, Public Information
Heartland Community College]
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