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Tune in to KPRC Houston Life Segment on Wednesday, May 28th at 1 p.m. to see the finalists in action!
Thank you for applying to the JMS Junior Innovators Program! All applicants will be receiving an email with an update on their application starting the week of April 29 through May 5th, along with an invitation to attend the Workshop Day taking place on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Top 8 Finalists will get a chance to pitch their idea in front of an esteemed panel of judges on May 14th. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for next year's competition!
Applicants Now ClosedBe Sure to Tune In Next Year
APPLICANTS NOW CLOSED
Tune in Next Year!
The Top Finalists will be Featured Alongside Their Ideas on KPRC’s Houston Life!
This competition offers a dynamic platform for young minds aged 8-16 to tap into their entrepreneurial potential. By encouraging innovation and creative thinking, it provides a unique opportunity for kids to not only sharpen their business acumen but also gain valuable real-world experience. The chance to win cash prizes and receive mentorship helps cultivate confidence and fosters the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.
Workshops & Mentorship
Finalists will also attend workshops designed to sharpen their skills, including:
Public Speaking and Pitch Coaching
Branding and Marketing Essentials
Business Planning and Financial Basics
APPLICANTS NOW CLOSED
Tune in Next Year!
Expert Panel: Meet Your Competition Judges
We're thrilled to announce the distinguished panel of judges for this year's Junior Innovators Competition!
Don Valentine
Don Valentine, Owner of John Moore Services, brings decades of entrepreneurial experience and business acumen to the judging table. As the visionary behind one of Houston's most trusted home service companies, Don knows what it takes to build a successful enterprise from the ground up and will be looking for that special combination of practicality and innovation.
Meredith Jurica
Meredith Jurica, the brilliant entrepreneur behind Makeup Junkie Bags, turned a simple idea into a multimillion-dollar business that caught the attention of the Sharks on ABC's Shark Tank. Her journey from creating products at her kitchen table to building a national brand demonstrates the power of determination and creative problem-solving—exactly what we're looking for in our Junior Innovators!
Stephen Ives
Stephen Ives, President & CEO of YMCA of Greater Houston’, leads one of the nation's most impactful community organizations dedicated to youth development and social responsibility. With his extensive background in community leadership and nonprofit management, Stephen brings a valuable perspective on innovations that can create meaningful social impact and serve community needs.
Johnny Carrabba
Johnny Carrabba III, founder of The Original Carrabba’s and owner of several successful local and national restaurants, is a respected entrepreneur and community advocate. A native Houstonian with decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Johnny brings a unique perspective on business growth, philanthropy, and the power of local investment to drive meaningful community impact.
