The EdVenture Group, in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Education, is pleased to announce the finalists for its highly anticipated, inaugural SparkWV Competition. SparkWV, a Big Idea and Small Business Generation Competition, opened to all middle and high school students in West Virginia in November 2023. After rigorous review of rounds of submissions, these finalists have emerged as outstanding competitors that showcase innovative ideas, possess a strategic vision, and embody an entrepreneurial spirit.
SparkWV replaces the former West Virginia High School Business Plan Competition, and expanded its reach to both middle and high school students across the state. It aims to foster creativity and entrepreneurship by providing a platform for aspiring business leaders to present their groundbreaking concepts, main street business ideas, and of course, viable side hustles. The competition is divided into two pathways, “Small Business,” and “Big Ideas,” allowing students to thrive in their respective categories. This year’s competition attracted a diverse array of participants, reflecting the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship in today’s classrooms, and the immense creativity and innovation of our WV students.
"We are thrilled to announce the exceptional finalists for this year's SparkWV Competition," said Cameron Keefe, Program Coordinator at The EdVenture Group and SparkWV Coordinator. "These aspiring entrepreneurs represent the future of innovation and business in West Virginia, and we commend them for their creativity and dedication in making this competition such a success."
The 2024 SparkWV Finalists for their respective categories are:
Small Business Category:
- DJzRugs, James Monroe High School
- EsaXNails, Wheeling Park High School
- G&P Vet Services, Fairmont Senior High School
- Passing Thai, Monongalia County Technical Education Center
- Printer Bros, University High School
- The Mad Jammer, Grafton High School
Big Idea Category:
- AED Drones, Carver Career And Technical Center
- Saving Charleston: A Journey of Hope, Herbert Hoover High School
- SE4SONS, PikeView High School
- Sigley Signs, Hundred High School
- Tag On The GO, Ripley High School
These finalists achieved the highest semi-final scores based on the originality of their concepts, feasibility of implementation, potential for growth, and overall business acumen demonstrated in their submissions, which included a business model canvas and pitch deck. Each finalist will have the opportunity to present their business pitch to a distinguished panel of judges composed of industry experts, investors, educators, and seasoned entrepreneurs throughout the West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem.
The finalists will compete for a variety of prizes, including cash awards, mentorship opportunities, and invaluable networking connections. The winner of the competition will not only receive recognition for their entrepreneurial achievements but also gain access to resources and support to help turn their vision into reality.
The SparkWV finals will take place on April 10th, 2024 at Mountain Health Arena, during Competition Day as part of Bridging Innovation Week, hosted by the West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem.
For more information about the SparkWV Competition and to learn about The EdVenture Group and West Virginia Dept of Education’s initiatives in fostering entrepreneurship, please visit https://theedventuregroup.org/entrepreneurship-education/