Kudos to CDH Entrepreneurs
June 12, 2024
CDH NEXT, the new name for the former Business Department, is a new program launched this past year, and features a curriculum designed to support innovation and entrepreneurship. Students can choose courses such as Entrepreneurial Mindsets, Marketing and Storytelling, Financial Literacy, and more.
This year, Anne Dougherty, CDH NEXT department chair and teacher, worked with with students in either a CDH NEXT course, or offered support outside of class to students who were not taking any of those elective courses. One goal this year was to support students who want to start a business with important business development mentoring as they developed their business idea.
After months of hard work, several young entrepreneurs are ready to launch their businesses. They have shown exceptional energy and enthusiasm. CDH is excited to share their innovative projects. Take a look!
Bad Plumbing Game
Entrepreneur: Liam Clift '24
Bad Plumbing introduces a creative twist to balance and dexterity board games. Unlike traditional games where the game ends with the collapse of a structure, Bad Plumbing continues as players take turns adding to a complex system of pipes. If pieces fall, they are collected in each player’s "Plumber's Pile" and must be placed back in subsequent turns. The game ends when a player successfully places the last pipe, declaring them the winner.
EliteClean Connect(ECC)
Entrepreneur: Jaziel Enriquez '26
EliteClean Connect specializes in window cleaning and pressure washing services. Their primary goal is to meet the needs of individuals seeking professional cleaning for windows and exteriors. This student-operated business will deliver exceptional customer service and impeccable results.
Real Estate
Entrepreneur Benny Johnson '25
Benny Johnson is pursuing a real estate license to make a significant positive impact in his community. By entering the real estate industry, Benny aims to assist clients in finding homes, investing wisely, and rejuvenating neighborhoods. His commitment to integrity, transparency, and personalized service promises to build lasting relationships and empower clients in their real estate decisions.
Rivera’s Bakery
Entrepreneur: Karla Rivera '25
Karla Rivera was inspired by her brother’s successful bakery in Mexico to bring authentic Mexican pastries to Minnesota. Targeting Hispanic residents longing for a taste of home and those curious about Mexican cuisine, Rivera’s Bakery offers genuine pastries online and locally. The initial launch will feature two signature pastries, with plans for more in the future.
Roberto Productions
Entrepreneur: Lucas Roberto '26
Roberto Productions specializes in impactful storytelling through cinematography. His portfolio showcases various multimedia projects, with a focus on meaningful narratives. The ongoing project, a documentary set from 2019 to 2024, explores faith-driven experiences within a youth group, aiming to inspire other youths to join and create their community groups.
Room Ready
Entrepreneur: Grant Bowman '24
In the Twin Cities, as well as all over the country, college students face the annual challenge of furnishing dorms and student housing. Room Ready offers a cost-effective solution by providing one-year rentals of essential room fixtures like microwaves, mini-fridges, and televisions. This service not only benefits students but also offers a potential outsourcing opportunity for college administrations. Room Ready will be piloted at the University of St. Thomas.
Empower the NEXT Generation of Changemakers
Whether through funding, mentorship, or connections, your support can help these talented individuals realize their potential and turn their visionary ideas into reality. If you are interested in the CDH NEXT program and/or the entrepreneurial opportunities, please contact Anne Dougherty.
"These students' creativity, determination, and enthusiasm truly drive the spirit of these initiatives,' said Dougherty, "I am excited to see the many successes that lie ahead for our young entrepreneurs."