In collaboration with The HUB, Huntsville High School students took part in a Shark Tank-style pitch event.
26 students from the Grade 11 Entrepreneurship: The Venture course participated as part of their culminating activity. Students worked in groups of five and presented their business and social-impact ideas to the “sharks” who were HUB members and local professionals. These individuals offered encouraging feedback and advice to the students. Pitches included anything from tech support for seniors, to user-friendly apps, to a vending machine that provides food/drinks and daily essentials to those less fortunate.
“This experience really helped to make the course real! The students took it all in their stride, and pulled together to make their presentations work,” said teacher, Liz Angell. “We are so thankful to The HUB for organizing the initiative.”
“The scope of research was impressive and very detailed, and the collaboration and teamwork was obvious. I was very proud of all of them!” said HUB member and owner of MP Food Stuff, Mary Pat Hearn.
Two students had great things to say as well: “Thank you for that amazing experience Mrs. Angell. It really boosted my confidence in presenting and knowledge about business,” said HHS student.
“After doing the work and hearing the feedback we had from the sharks, I feel my confidence has risen, resulting in improvements in both teamwork and leadership,” said another HHS student.
This was the second “Shark Tank” event hosted in collaboration with The HUB, with last year’s event inviting Grade 9 students. The school plans on hosting the event again next school year.
“I was very happy to participate because I believe in giving them (students) the opportunity to present a concept; it’s a really great life skill to develop,” said HUB member, director of the HUB’s Board of Directors, and co-owner of Outside Inside Games, Dave Smrtka.
