Big Ideas Take Spotlight at 2026 enTEENpreneur Challenge
SPRINGFIELD — The next generation of entrepreneurs brought bold ideas, sharp pitches, and plenty of energy to the 2026 enTEENpreneur Challenge, hosted by Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) on April 28 at the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center at Springfield.
Students pitched original business ideas to local entrepreneurs and business leaders after participating in the JA Company Program and JA Be Entrepreneurial. Judges evaluated each team on presentation skills, business concept, innovation, and market potential.
“It is inspiring to watch students take their ideas and confidently present them to business leaders from our community,” said Amie Mairecki, president of JAWM. “Their creativity and professionalism show tremendous promise for the future of Western Massachusetts.”
Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy students swept the top three categories. First place went to the Sweet Machine, a homemade baked goods delivery service created by Ernie Calvino and Aniyah Miller. Second place went to Stellar Volleyball Center, created by Yanisha Torres Quinones and Janiyah Mateo. Third place went to Rosie’s Stickers, created by Rosie Marquez.
Additional awards included Most Innovative Product for D&K Sweetened Scents, created by Darilys Lopez and Kay Serrano, also from Putnam Vocational, and Best Trade Show Booth for Jeffords Engineering Solutions, created by Ishmael Jeffords from Hampshire Regional High School.
The competition entries were evaluated by a panel of regional business and entrepreneurship leaders, including Mychal Connolly Sr. of Stand Out Truck, Marketing & Cupcakes, and Audacy; Samalid Hogan of Greylock Management Consulting; Terrell Joyner of Charter Oak and the Consulting Web; Amy McClain of the UMass Amherst Berthiaume Center for Entrepreneurship; and Roberto Nieves of Common Capital.
Sponsors included the Consulting Web, the UPS Store, and the UMass Amherst Berthiaume Center for Entrepreneurship.
