American Savings Bank Opens Applications for 2024 KeikiCo Business Plan Contest

American Savings Bank (ASB) is excited to announce the return of its seventh annual Bank for Education KeikiCo Contest, a business plan competition designed to inspire entrepreneurial spirit and enhance financial literacy among Hawaii’s young leaders. Last year, over $145,000 was awarded to 11 local schools for innovative ideas ranging from sustainable waste management solutions to a mental health app.

REGISTER HERE

“At American Savings Bank, we are committed to providing financial education to empower young entrepreneurs in building a stronger, more diverse Hawaii,” said Ann Teranishi, president and CEO at ASB. “The KeikiCo Contest never ceases to amaze us with the dedication, innovation and creativity of Hawaii’s keiki. Last year, over 100 students participated, demonstrating incredible talent and commitment to positively impact their communities.”

ABOUT THE KEIKICO CONTEST

Launched in 2015, the KeikiCo Contest was initially held every other year. Due to popular demand from teachers and school administrators, it is now offered annually. The contest encourages young innovators, dreamers and visionaries to think outside the box for community solutions. ASB offers financial education resources and a platform for young leaders to thrive, fostering a more diversified economy. ASB supports teachers and advisors with a video curriculum and online resources to empower their students.

CONTEST DETAILS

1. ELIGIBLITY: Students in grades 3 to 12 form teams of two to five members and present their business plan ideas to a distinguished panel of judges. 
2. PRIZES: Participants can win up to $25,000 for their school, to be used at the school’s discretion. Awards are presented in three divisions – elementary, middle and high school, along with the People’s Choice award, which is determined through public voting. Students of first and second place teams can also win individual cash prizes of up to $500 each.
3. SUBMISSION: The competition is open to the first 60 schools that submit the School Registration Form. The registration deadline is Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. 

Beyond the competition, KeikiCo winners receive exclusive membership to ASB’s Bank for Education Ohana, granting access to invaluable perks, including opportunities to apply for grants, receive volunteer service support from ASB teammates, priority consideration for scholarships and internships and participation in special events with distinguished guests like NASA astronauts and elite athletes.

Important Dates

• Aug. 16: Registration deadline
• Aug. 19: Contest begins
• Nov. 4, 5 p.m.: Deadline to submit business plans and pitches
• Nov. 25 - Dec. 1: People’s Choice voting
• Dec. 5: Winners notified
• Dec. 7 - 21: Award ceremonies

ASB’s Bank for Education program has donated over $1.8 million to nearly 50 local schools. To learn more about the competition and ASB’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and financial education, visit www.asbhawaii.com/keikico.