Press Release|

HELENA—Winners of The Prospects, the Montana Chamber Foundation’s (MTCF) business pitch competition, were announced on Friday in a virtual awards ceremony. Governor Greg Gianforte opened the ceremony by congratulating the students and sharing his own story of how he started his first business when he was just 14.

“As the next generation of Montana entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders, you represent our state’s future and its unbridled potential. You will make your communities stronger and create opportunities for others”, the Governor remarked.

In November of 2020, the Montana Chamber Foundation launched its first statewide entrepreneurship competition for high school students inviting them to pitch new ideas and existing small businesses. The contest received 93 entries from students across the state competing for over $50,000 in scholarships and cash prizes.

With categories like Best New Business Idea, Best Existing Business, Most Promise, Rural, and Urban, Montana students are connecting with industry experts through the Chamber Foundation for mentoring, internships, apprenticeships, and work-based learning opportunities. The Prospects received overwhelming support from the business community, with more than 70 Montana leaders stepping up to volunteer their time to review and judge student submissions.

Jessie Luther, Principal at Taylor Luther Group said “As the Montana Chamber Foundation Board President, I am excited and encouraged by all of the submissions we’ve seen from these students- their passion, dedication, and hard work showed in every video. The future of Montana’s up-and-coming entrepreneurs and workforce is bright!“

The Montana Chamber Foundation would like to thank all the students for all of the submissions. A special thanks are also extended to the volunteer judges and statewide partners who donated their time and the $35,500 in cash, $15,000 in scholarships and financial aid, and $2,000 in technology prizes.

A full list of winners can be found by clicking PROSPECTS WINNERS LIST.

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About the Montana Chamber Foundation:

The Montana Chamber Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Montana Chamber of Commerce. We promote economic education, economic development, and community viability by participating in educational projects and research that benefit Montana businesses.

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