A Folsom student is gaining early recognition in the world of entrepreneurship after placing among the top teams in a regional high school business competition that challenges students to turn innovative ideas into real-world startup concepts.
Sophomore Gemma Frisch of Folsom, along with teammate Alexandra Wallace, placed second runner-up in the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) High School Business Pitch Competition, powered by Junior Achievement of Sacramento. The pair received a $100 award for their project.
Frisch and Wallace developed an app concept titled Specialized Care for Kids, designed to connect families with trusted sitters who can provide reliable, specialized and flexible care for children. The idea was created to help families find caregivers equipped to meet a variety of child care needs, particularly those requiring additional attention or specific experience.
“Competing in the National Association of Women Business Owners program through Junior Achievement pushed me in the best way,” Frisch said. “The mentorship and hands-on experience helped me see both the challenges and possibilities of starting a business. More than anything, my confidence grew and I learned how to present professionally. It’s an experience that has truly prepared me for college and beyond.”
Students participating in the competition were required to develop original business concepts, including full marketing plans and detailed financial models. Teams then delivered formal presentations and submitted comprehensive business plans to a panel of local female business leaders, who evaluated the ideas based on innovation, feasibility and presentation.
Another team from St. Francis High School also earned recognition in the competition. A group of juniors secured the first runner-up position with their project Serenlinq, a Near Field Communication (NFC)–enabled productivity and wellness tool designed as a fashionable accessory.
The entrepreneurship program concludes March 7 with the NAWBO Outstanding Women Leaders Gala and Awards, where participating students will be formally recognized for their work and achievements throughout the competition.
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