July 27, 2024, 8:00 AM (Hawaii Standard Time)
American Savings Bank (ASB) has announced the return of its Education Banking Keikiko competition, a business plan competition designed to inspire entrepreneurship and increase financial literacy among Hawaii's young leaders. Last year, more than $145,000 was awarded to 11 local schools whose innovative ideas ranged from sustainable waste management solutions to mental health apps.
“At American Savings Bank, we are committed to providing financial education to empower young entrepreneurs to make Hawaii a stronger, more diverse place,” said Anne Teranishi, president and CEO of ASB. “At the Keikiko Contest, we are continually amazed by the dedication, innovation and creativity of Hawaii's keiki. Last year, over 100 students participated, demonstrating their incredible talent and passion for making a positive impact in their community.”
Launched in 2015, the KeikiCo competition was initially held every two years. Due to popular demand from teachers and school administrators, it is now held annually. The competition encourages young innovators, dreamers and visionaries to think outside the box for community solutions. ASB provides financial education resources and a platform for young leaders to succeed, fostering a more diversified economy. ASB supports teachers and advisors with video curriculum and online resources to empower students.
Contest Details
- Eligibility: Students in grades 3-12 will form teams of 2-5 people and develop a business plan that will be reviewed by a panel of distinguished judges.
- Prizes: Participants may award their school up to $25,000. Prize money is to be used at the school's discretion. Prizes will be awarded in three divisions: elementary, middle, and high school, in addition to a People's Choice award determined by public vote. Students on first and second place teams can also win prizes of up to $500 each.
- How to Enter: The contest is open to the first 60 schools that submit a school registration form. The registration deadline is Friday, August 16, 2024. After the contest ends, the KeikiCo winner will receive exclusive membership in ASB's Bank for Education Ohana and access to valuable benefits, including the ability to apply for grants, volunteer support from their ASB teammates, priority consideration for scholarships and internships, and attendance at exclusive events with notable guests such as NASA astronauts and top athletes.
Key Dates
- August 16th: Registration Deadline
- August 19th: Contest begins
- November 4th, 5pm: Deadline for business plan and presentation submissions
- November 25th to December 1st: People's Choice Vote
- December 5th: Winners notified
- December 9th-20th: Awards Ceremony
Click here to register.
