NOTICE: This website is no longer updated, as the Decade of Difference initiative has reached its sunset date. Relevant information has been transferred to the main HCOE site.

Phase 3: Finalist Presentations

Top 11 Finalist Ideas Announced!

Thank you to all the Semi-finalists who prepared and submitted their 13 Business Concept Question answer sets on April 12th. Our judges read and scored them to select the following finalists:

Top 5 Finalists

  • Elijah Matthies, Zoe Barnum | It's 5am Beats Music Producer
  • Evelyn Gillespie, Eureka High | Robes of Venus
  • Chloe Latt, Academy of the Redwoods | Wattle Renewal
  • Abigail Ziesak, Eureka High | Miss Abigail's Jams & Jellies
  • Jeremicah Curiel, Eureka High | PIICKUP Sports App

Design Review Finalists

  • Pau Font Melendez, Six Rivers Charter | Tibak
  • Asia Brunell, McKinleyville High | Every Eye Reader
  • Dallas Daynard, McKinleyville High | Road House
  • Kelson Sutter, Mckinleyville High | Road House
  • Stephanie Wilson, McKinleyville High | Road House & Demetrius
  • Cory Soll, Arcata High | Soll Spear Guns
  • Holly James, Six Rivers Charter | Handmade & Heartfelt

Phase III: Top 10 Presentations

The Top 11 business start-up ideas are selected to present their ideas to a panel of judges in May. There will be two types of presentations; one is the Top Five ideas being pitched LIVE at the Finale on May 30th! To help prepare the students for these presentations, business mentors will provide feedback during financial coaching, a formal practice and one-on-one depending on their need. These Top Five finalists are competing for thousands of dollars in prizes and awards.

The Top Six through Eleven start-up ideas will discuss their concepts with judges during a Design Review Interview. Finalists will be offered feedback and encouragement to continue developing their idea. They too will be recognized with cash prizes at the Finale.

  • Design Review Interviews:
    Friday, May 17th, Humboldt County Office of Education (2:00-5:00 p.m.)
  • Top Five Mock Presentations:
    Thursday, May 23rd, Humboldt County Office of Education (1:00-5:30 p.m.)
  • Top Five Finale:
    Thursday, May 30th, HCOE’s Sequoia Conference Center (5:00 p.m.)
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