Creativity, innovation, and determination were on full display as five teams of high school students pitched their startup ideas at the 2025 Young Entrepreneurs Pitch Week Showcase, May 2 at the Nevada County Government Center board chambers.

Taking home both first prize and crowd favorite honors was Smart Selection, an app designed to empower users to invest in their personal health by analyzing the products they eat. The winning team was comprised of Nevada Union freshman Elena Miller and Ghidotti Junior Grant LaCosse, who impressed judges and the audience alike with their mission-driven approach to nutrition and technology.

“It was really interesting to hear the stories of other people who have succeeded as entrepreneurs,” said Miller. “For me, that was the most inspiring part of the week.”

“To me the best part of Pitch Week was seeing everyone’s ideas come to life,” added LaCosse. “Watching how much our product evolved from Monday to Friday with all of the mentors' help was surreal. It really showed how far we were able to come in such a short time! I also enjoyed networking with people in our county who are living out the aspirations I have—it made working in business feel all the more attainable.”

Second prize was awarded to The Happs, an app that curates and calendars events happening in the community. The team behind The Happs included Nevada Union senior Mackenzie Rist, Ghidotti Senior AJ Janow, and Nevada Union sophomore Elle Piland.

“I enjoyed the whole week from forming groups the first night to having it all come together,” said Piland.

This year’s showcase was emceed by Nevada County Board of Supervisors Chair Heidi Hall, who guided the evening with enthusiasm and support for the students. The panel of judges featured an esteemed group of local leaders: Supervisor Lisa Swarthout, Grass Valley City Council Member Haven Caravelli, Modus Manufacturing Co-owner Scottie Stephan, and Weiss Landscaping Co-owner Bob Zucca.

Hosted by Nevada County and sponsored by River Valley Community Bank, the weeklong program brought together 9th–12th grade students for five evenings of business planning, team collaboration, and one-on-one mentoring. Over 80 attendees cheered on the students during the showcase event, which featured a panel of judges in a “Shark Tank” format.

The Young Entrepreneurs Pitch Week teaches students how to develop a business model, budget, and pitch deck—essential skills for aspiring business leaders. This year’s event once again proved that with the right guidance and opportunity, the next generation of entrepreneurs is ready to lead.  For more information about future events, contact Kimberly Parker at Kimberly.Parker@nevadacountyca.gov  Jeff Dellis at Jeff.Dellis@nevadacountyca.gov.

***

PHOTO CAPTION: Ghidotti Junior Grant LaCosse and Nevada Union freshman Elena Miller give their winning pitch May 2 during the 2025 Young Entrepreneurs Pitch Week Showcase at the Nevada County Government Center.