WASHINGTON–BizKid$, the credit union-backed financial education program for kids that airs on PBS and is overseen by the National CU Foundation, has named the winners of its first-ever national Biz Kid$ Showcase. More than 100 kids participated.
Having taken place virtually, the Showcase allowed participants to complete learning modules focused on creating a business plan, building a brand, and setting a business up for future success. Each participant or team submitted both a business plan and a final showcase project, displaying all of their hard work.
Judges from each partner state scored final showcase projects on branding, uniqueness, need, target market and overall presentation, the Foundation said.
After being judged at the state level, the winning final showcase projects from each state were reviewed again by a second panel of judges on the national level. The winners include:
1st Place: GradGenie
GradGenie was created by Yuktha Senthil, a student at Westview High School/Poway Unified School District in San Diego. “GradGenie is a student social platform with features that promote school resources, as well as giving students a place to share posts and announcements about clubs and organizations. The goal is to help students connect with each other and empower them to make the best of their life as a student. Learn more about GradGenie.”
2nd Place: C Squared Cakes
C Squared Cakes was created by Casey Harrison and Camdon Farmer from New Mexico. “C Squared Cakes is a cake business with a mission. For each cake purchased, C Squared Cakes will donate a cake to UNM Hospital to bring joy to a child who may be there during a special occasion. Learn more about C Squared Cakes.”
3rd Place: Safety Calls
Safety Calls was created by Trinity Blackwood from Nevada. “Safety Calls is a small business that would help connect people with designated drivers. Safety Calls aims to provide those incapable of driving for any reason a safe way to get around.”
The Showcase was presented in partnership with the Southeastern CU Foundation, the RMJ Foundation, the Illinois CU Foundation and the Credit Union Association of New Mexico.