High school business students from around the state had the opportunity of presenting their proposed business plans for investment consideration at the Advanced Learning Center Business Competition. The Competition was similar to the TV Reality show Shark Tank, with the winter receiving a check to develop their business and education. This opportunity comes from the Utah Invest Nest initiative to “Awaken the Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Youth” in our local high schools.
The first phase of the competition began on January 27, when students from all over the state met at Nebo School District’s Advanced Learning Center (ALC) in Salem to host the initial competition of business plans. This first round consisted of 1- 2 minute presentations, and coaches took notes to assist students develop their presentations for the next phase of the competition.
The second round of competition was held on April 17, after six weeks of mentoring sessions. During this phase, students were developing their presentation skills in pitching their business proposals. As part of this phase, six individuals or business groups were selected for a 10-minute presentation about their proposed business and answered any questions the judges might have.
Three ALC CAPS (Center for Advanced Studies) students were selected as the top finalists. First place went to Bryson Ripley’s business titled SilverWear, which is unique jewelry created from metal eating utensils. That proposal earned $10,000. Second place went to Ryder Peterson for Nebo Custom Woodworks, with a prize of $3,000. Third place, with a prize of $2,000, went to James Owen, Mohan Ghosh, Preston Thomas, Brett Johnson, and Nate Hillam for their business titled, The Basement Engineers.
A final state-wide student business competition was held on May 1 at Wasatch High School for all the high school first-place winners from the Provo, Wasatch, Park City, and Duchesne school districts. Each of these school districts are members of the International Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS).
Bryson Ripley from the Nebo School Districts Advanced Learning Center (ALC) will be competing for the $10,000 Utah First Place Student Business Award. Mr. BJ Ford is the Business Course Instructor at ALC and has committed many hours helping students prepare for this real-world, hands-on, learning experience.
