Entrepreneurial Spirit Shines in Hannibal

Five young people stepped into a “Shark Tank”-like competition at HLGU Wednesday evening. The event showcased the business acumen of student CEOs who shared a passionate vision for their start-up ventures.

The teens presented business plans and requests for funding to a panel of four investor judges and a public audience. A variety of business interests were represented:

Karrigan Jones from Quincy showed samples of her calligraphy on canvas featuring inspirational messages. Her company is called “Calli on Callaway” She will move on to regional competition after being selected to receive the Saunders Scholar Award. Should Jones advance to national competition, she could have an opportunity to appear on the real “Shark Tank” reality show.

Connor Bogue of Hannibal presented his mobile car detailing business “Connor’s Streetside Auto Detailing” .He received the largest investor award, $1125. He plans to use the funds to purchase a carpet extractor, pressure washer, and a paint-less dent removal kit.

Jessica Stinson of Hannibal shared her vision for locally produced fresh-roasted coffee—“Kickin’ Koffee”.

Kinsey Tiemann of Palmyra is the CEO of “Square Rooted”. Her company partners with FFA youth to bring locally-raised food products to consumers.

Rashelle Porter hails from Monroe City. Her business venture “Neticflow” produces magnetically infused orthotic inserts for shoes.

The investor judges were:

Scott Hall: Business Instructor, HLGU
Wendy Harrington: President/CEO Hannibal Regional Foundation
Josh Wilson: Community President of Homebank
George Walley: Director, NEMO Economic Development Council

Brad Kurz of Edward Jones was the Facilitator.

All of the entrepreneurs were awarded funds over and above the amounts requested. The total awarded to the five contestants totals almost $5,000.

All five students came to the competition after participating in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy sponsored by the Hannibal Area Chamber of Commerce. According to Chamber Executive Director McKenzie Disselhorst, the program is the first in the state of Missouri.