Nova Scotia students have been recognized for their entrepreneurial talent.
Becky Druhan, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, with the finalists for the Minister's Entrepreneurship Award of Excellence.
Photo : Communications Nova Scotia
Every year, students in grades 6 through 12 are invited to compete for the Minister's Entrepreneurship Award of Excellence, which includes $1,000 to help launch their idea to start or grow their business.
"The future growth of our province depends on fostering the skills and interests of our students, such as the ones who stepped up this year to compete for the Minister's Entrepreneurship Award of Excellence," said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Becky Druhan. "I am truly impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit, critical thinking and presentation skills I witnessed throughout this competition. I look forward to seeing what these young people accomplish in the future."
Maddie Quirk promotes her business idea, Annapolis Youth Sports Club, at her booth during the student showcase Wednesday, May 1.
Photo : Communications Nova Scotia
Eight finalists were selected to pitch their proposals to a panel of local entrepreneurial leaders at an event Wednesday, May 1, at Saint Mary's University.
The 2024 winners are:
- Maddie Quirk, Annapolis Youth Sports Club, Bridgetown Regional Community School
- Rory Fox, Swole Bears, Lockview High School
- Jonas Tkacz, AntigoFix Electronics Repair, École acadienne de Pomquet
Rory Fox practises pitching his business idea, Swole Bears, a protein-rich candy.
Photo : Communications Nova Scotia
Business plans were assessed on how realistic they are and how they could address a problem or create economic growth in Nova Scotia. Each application included a description of the product, service or idea; a marketing plan; a budget; and information on how the $1,000 grant would be used.
This year's judges were:
- Savior Joseph, board Chair, Tribe Network
- Eileen Paul, Manager, Membertou Entrepreneur Centre
- Ingrid Deon, founder and CEO, word-craft
- Faten Alshazly, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer, WeUsThem
- Chris Boulter, Executive Director, Education Innovation, Programs and Services, Education and Early Childhood Development.
Jonas Tkacz takes part in a workshop preparing him to pitch his business idea, AntigoFix Electronics Repair, to the judges.
Communications Nova Scotia
Quotes:
"I was really honoured to be asked to be a judge. As a Mi'kmaq person, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn about this award and what I can do to further support Mi'kmaw in entrepreneurship."
Eileen Paul, Manager, Membertou Entrepreneur Centre
"It is always exciting to see the ideas that young people come up with. They often have a lot of new ideas and, as an entrepreneur, I am always looking for new employees so this is a great way to scout out talent and expand my network by meeting the other judges."
Ingrid Deon, founder and CEO, word-craft
"This award means I can achieve whatever I can put my mind to. I started as a small-town business helping my community. I decided to apply and didn't expect to be accepted, let alone win. I don't just take away the win, I take away what I have learned from the experience, the workshops and from all the people I have met."
Maddie Quirk, award recipient, Bridgetown Regional Community School
"This experience allowed me to understand a bit more what it means to be an entrepreneur. It's allowed me to connect with professionals in the field and build strong connections."
Jonas Tkacz, award recipient, École acadienne de Pomquet
"I wear a lot of different shoes running this business. It's become almost a full-time job on top of school. I take great pride in this recognition of my hard work. This has been a wonderful experience where I have had the chance to hone my presentation skills and meet like-minded entrepreneurs. I am grateful to have the opportunity to let people know about my product."
Rory Fox, award recipient, Lockview High School
Quick Facts:
- since the award was launched in 2017, more than 90 students have participated, pitching 60 ideas
- the Minister's Entrepreneurship Award of Excellence is open to all students in grades 6 to 12 in Nova Scotia public schools; applications will open again in early 2025
Additional Resources:
Minister's Entrepreneurship Award of Excellence: https://novascotia.ca/entrepreneuraward/
