Youth in Harris County are interested in starting a business and making money. Inspired by the TV program “Shark Tank”, participants in the Houston 4-H CEO Enterprise program presented business plans for new DBAs they established after attending a six month series of learning experiences. Enterprise takes the 4-H project to the next level by encouraging participants to use their skills in project areas such as Clothing and Textiles, Photography, Creative Arts and Public Speaking to develop a “new product” for sale.
Youth were challenged to take an “idea” for a product they produce through the process of preparing and presenting a business plan, going into production and taking the product to market. In the process, participants gain skills in teamwork, communication, critical thinking, finance, time management, setting goals, problem solving and develop abilities to achieve in the “real world” of commerce. Teams created marketing materials, produced products for sale, exhibited business plans, set up exhibits for Trade Show, and recorded commercials.
A total of six business proposals were made to judges serving as potential investors at the “Sharky Tank” contest. Judges evaluated three components including the business plan and portfolio, the presentation and “The Pitch” with interview. Cash investments were awarded to DBAs ranging from $40-$100 based on criteria scored as ready to expand or initiate business plans. Youth exhibited their businesses and products at a Trade Show open to the public to pitch and sell products. Results of a Retrospective Post Survey indicated 91% (11 of 12) gained significant skills in planning, marketing and product development to establish a business.
Sixty-six percent (8 of 12) took products to market using internet sites such as on Etsy, Facebook or developed web sites and sold products. Two businesses attended a church bizarre and Home School Expo to sell products and directly promote business to general public. Youth competing in “Sharky Tank” impressed the judges, demonstrating entrepreneurship that translates to the workplace skills and provides a foundation for future achievement in life. A total of thirty-seven youth and adults participated in the "Sharky Tank."
Houston 4-H CEO Enterprise “Sharky Tank” and Trade Show
HOUSTON 4-h ceo eNTERPRISE "sHARKY tANK"
& tRADE sHOW
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