Summer Startup

2020 Winners

In 2020, GSE pivoted with a virtual program.

Our approach to COVID-19 in Summer 2020 relied on strategic planning, a network of organizations across the state, and a team of young entrepreneurs ready to take action.

Now, more than ever, young entrepreneurs are needed to help sustain and rebuild Kentucky’s economy. Our unique hybrid approach included state-of-the-art conferencing software, partnering with entrepreneurial hubs, and exceptional students.

The 2020 Demo Day finalists were as follows:

Pathfinder | with team members Paige Neuhaus, Notre Dame Academy in Kenton County; Daniel Roenker, Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in Fayette County; Sai Jeyaprakash, duPont Manual High School in Jefferson County; and Aidan Robertson, Atherton High School in Jefferson County, won $1,000 with an app similar to Waze but specific to colleges and universities, allowing users to request companions, quickly call for help and report happenings across campus.

P.R.E.S.S. (Personalized Responsive Emergency Safety System) | with team members Ashley Wilbers and Brel Alsip, both of the Ignite Institute in Kenton County; Evelyn Overstreet, duPont Manual High School in Jefferson County; and Colson Collett, Walton – Verona High School in Boone County, won $750 with a customizable bracelet design that is tailored to children with allergies, allowing them to contact family members and emergency services quickly, with the press of a button, in the event of an emergency or allergic reaction.

Zense | with team members Alex Billings, J. Graham Brown School in Jefferson County; Quinton Wehby, Highlands High School in Campbell County; Mary Caroline Noneman, Paducah Tilghman High School in McCracken County; and Caroline Henry, Paul G. Blazer High School in Boyd County, won $500 for an alarm clock that wakes users up slowly, eliminating harsh alarm sounds and replacing them with aromatherapy and noises that steadily increase in volume.