EPIC Program Wraps Up Year Two with Program Graduation & Student Business Grants

In April, the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation celebrated the graduation of our Year Two EPIC (Entrepreneur Program Impacting Communities) students. This innovative program empowers high school students to develop business ideas, engage with mentors, and learn real-world entrepreneurial skills.

2025 EPIC Class: Jack Watts, Kyle Maniero, Miron Sviridov, Sadie Vega, Ezekiel David Vega, Justis Wright, Jhonatan Santaclara, Daniel Cruz, Collins Thornton (not pictured), and Kaleb Beauchamp (not pictured)

While all participating students were honored for their hard work and progress, we were thrilled to award grant funding to three standout students whose business ideas stood out for their creativity, sustainability, and potential for growth. A total of $2,500 was awarded to help these young entrepreneurs launch or further develop their businesses:

• Sadie Vega, Cute Little Shop – Polymer clay jewelry and accessories

• Justis Wright, Wright’s Pressure Washing

• Jhonatan Santaclara, Aircraft and Auto Paint Technician

We presented grant checks to these students during April’s Business After Hours, hosted by Cadence Bank. It was a special evening where the EPIC students had the chance to showcase their businesses and network with members of our Chamber business community, gaining both support and inspiration for their next steps.

Photo Credit: SaltWashed Photo Co

As we close out another successful year of EPIC, we’re already looking ahead. Applications for the next class are open now! If you’re a student with a passion for entrepreneurship, or know someone who is, we invite you to learn more and apply at www.sbchamberfoundation.org/epic.

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our program facilitator, Tara McMeans, and our generous sponsors, community partners, and mentors who make the EPIC program possible. Your investment in our youth is building a stronger, more inspired future for our community.