Our finalists in the MADICO MAKERS Student Entrepreneurship Program were recognized for their hard work last Wednesday night at a business after-hours reception. Each student received a score for their business plan and their "Shark Tank" pitch. The panel of judges did not have an easy task, and the students were recognized as follows:

1. First Place: Madison Samples, Mawmaw's Place ($2,500.00 stipend)
2. Second Place: Masi Gaither, Hitchcock Candles & Company ($1,000.00 stipend)
3. Third Place: Demarius Strong, Michael's Family Kitchen ($500.00 stipend)

Thank you to the many people who poured into these student entrepreneurs over the course of the eight month program, namely Mrs. Nations of Madison County High School, the UGA SBDC, and these businesses:

• Coldwell Banker Upchurch Realty Kim Shupe The Shupe Team 
• First Citizens Bank/ Sherry Allen
• Georgia Metals/ Tripp Strickland

Thank you to HireSmart and the Lackey Family for funding the business stipends for the winners! We look forward to these businesses starting in Madison County. 

Photo Credit: MC Work Based Learning Program

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