Student Wins LaGrange Entrepreneur Competition
Peyton Schrock (left) took home the top prize. (photo courtesy LaGrange County EDC)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA student from Westview High School in Topeka has taken home the top prize in the third annual Launch LaGrange County Entrepreneur Competition. Peyton Schrock won a $5,000 startup grant for his venture, Schrock Mobile Poultry Butchering and Processing.
Launch LaGrange County says Schrock’s startup is a full-service operation that "provides the chickens, feed, and butchering services for those who want to raise their own poultry for meat without the hassle of transporting or butchering." As part of his winnings, Schrock also received scholarship offers from three area colleges and $150 cash.
"This program teaches students critical business skills and equips them for life after graduation," said Molly Manns, a teacher at Westview High School. "In addition to the grant and scholarship money they compete to receive, students gain real-world problem-solving skills, planning skills, researching skills, and public speaking skills, all of which are practical and will reach beyond the classroom setting."
The entrepreneur competition featured six teams of students representing Westview, Lakeland and Prairie Heights high schools pitching their ideas to a panel of judges and a live audience.
The second-place winner was Lakeland student Daniel Lambright for his startup, Smart Solar. The company uses solar power to recharge and extend the life of golf cart batteries. Lambright received a $2,5000 startup grant, scholarship offers from three area colleges and $150 cash.
Third place went to Lakeland student Manny Rangel for his startup, Adapt. The company features an app that provides a new way to advertise to a specific target market. Rangel received a $1,000 grant, scholarship offers from three area colleges and $150 cash.
The competition was sponsored by the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce, Community Foundation and Economic Development Corporation. Organizers say planning will begin in the coming weeks for the 2019 event, which is expected to include other segments of the community.