Independence Bank believes in supporting big dreams—no matter how young the dreamers. That’s why they were eager to sponsor this special feature, celebrating eight incredible young entrepreneurs who are turning their ideas into reality. But they didn’t stop there.
Each of these entrepreneurs was challenged to submit a business plan, which was reviewed by an expert panel at the bank. The judges had the tough job of selecting three standout businesses to receive financial investments. In the end, they awarded $500 to first place, $300 to second, and $200 to third. The remaining entrepreneurs were celebrated with plenty of Independence Bank swag, and all were recognized during a special presentation at the bank’s lobby.
These young entrepreneurs are proof that big ideas can start early—and with the right support, they can grow into something even bigger.
Josiah Woodfall
1st Place Winner: Pottery
Josiah Woodfall started his pottery business, Woodfall Pottery, after developing an interest in clay sculpting. His passion for pottery grew after he began taking lessons from a monk, Martin Erspamer, at the Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Josiah plans to sell his pottery through an online shop and possibly at local art festivals or farmer’s markets. His parents and grandparents have been instrumental in supporting his entrepreneurial journey.
One of Josiah’s biggest challenges is finding time to create between schoolwork and setting up his business. He’s still working on creating a website and organizing the financial aspects of his business. Josiah plans to use his investment from Independence Bank to purchase supplies, including the glazes he makes himself, as well as cover packaging costs for online sales.
Grayson Tyler
2nd Place Winner: Homemade Dog Treats
Grayson Tyler, the owner of Farm Dogs Bakery, started his business out of his love for baking and dogs. He creates homemade dog treats and sells them to local customers. Grayson came up with the idea for his bakery, combining his passions for baking and his family’s farm dogs. His mom, who works tirelessly to finish what she starts, is a huge inspiration to him.
The process of getting his business off the ground wasn’t easy, with Grayson facing challenges like obtaining proper labels and getting permission to sell his treats publicly. However, he’s learned a great deal throughout the process and is eager to continue growing his bakery. With the investment provided by Independence Bank, Grayson will invest in better ingredients and expand his workspace.
Stiles West
3rd Place Winner: Firewood
Stiles West, a 16 year old student at Daviess County High School, recently launched his business, West Firewood. With a strong work ethic instilled in him by his dad, a successful business owner, Stiles began his firewood business after working with his father since he was 10 years old. He offers a variety of wood bundles and is currently building a website to further promote his business. He has already secured contracts with local gas stations and markets his services through Facebook Marketplace.
Stiles’ biggest challenges have been marketing his business effectively and finding ways to stand out from the local competition. He also struggles with deliveries due to his limited driving experience, but has hired others to assist with that for now. Stiles will put the investment from Independence Bank to a larger wood splitter to increase production and offer more services.
James Edwards & Caleb Tong
Lawn Care
James Edwards, 17, and Caleb Tong, 16, both students at Daviess County High School, decided to start a business together called Trim and Grind Co. Caleb had been working with his dad on stump grinding, while James had been mowing lawns since he was eight years old. Together, they are working to offer both lawn care and stump grinding services, filling a gap in their local market, where few companies offer stump grinding.
The biggest challenge they face is marketing their new business and finding clients outside of lawn care. James and Caleb plan to reach out to tree removal services to partner for stump grinding jobs. As they work to grow their business, they hope to invest in gas, business cards, and company shirts, with the long-term goal of purchasing a new riding mower and trailer to expand their equipment.
Addison Spurrier
Banner Painting
Addison Spurrier, a senior at Daviess County High School, started her banner-making business after seeing a trend on TikTok and realizing there was a local demand for painted event banners. She created banners for her own birthday party, and soon after, her friends began asking her to make banners for their events. Addison decided to turn this into a business, posting her work on Facebook. Though she has yet to come up with an official name for her business, she’s been creating banners for events like baby showers and birthdays for the past four months.
Addison credits her determination to her grandmother, who owns En Vogue, a local consignment shop, and has always been a hardworking role model. One of her biggest challenges is refining her technique, as clients now expect more intricate designs. As she continues to grow her skills, she hopes to invest in higher-quality paint and brushes, along with a large roll of paper for banner creations.
Alexis Cunningham
Crocheted Products
Alexis Cunningham, a 6th grader at Owensboro Catholic, has been selling her crocheted products, including hair scrunchies, scarves, hats, and stuffed animals, on Facebook for about a year. Her greatest challenge has been learning how to make more complicated items requested by her friends. When faced with a challenge, Alexis looks up tutorials and practices until she perfects her craft.
Her dad has been a constant source of inspiration, showing Alexis the value of hard work. As she continues to grow her business, she hopes to invest in more yarn and new patterns to expand her offerings.
Max Johnson
Lawn Care
Max Johnson, a sophomore at Apollo High School, started his business, Max Mowes, four years ago. Initially hesitant, Max wanted a way to make extra money, and soon discovered that lawn care was not only profitable but also a great way to connect with people. What began with just two yards has grown to twelve. He enjoys chatting with clients after finishing a job, adding a personal touch to his business. Max credits Mr. Phelan, his teacher and neighbor, as a role model. Mr. Phelan, who also runs a lawn mowing business, has been an invaluable mentor, offering advice whenever needed.
Challenges Max faces include the frustration of maintaining his weed eater, especially when it runs out of string, and the unpredictable weather, which forces him to reschedule jobs. Despite these obstacles, Max enjoys the work and stays motivated by his dad, who helped him get started. As his business grows, he hopes to invest in better equipment, including a zero-turn lawn mower, and find a way to give back to his dad for his support.
Elliot Dunn
Lawn Care
Elliot Dunn, a 12 year old homeschooled student, started his lawn care business, Yards Dunn Right, after realizing that mowing lawns for neighbors would allow him to make extra money. His business quickly grew to include other yard services like gardening, leaf raking, and yard cleaning. Elliot enjoys the flexibility of homeschooling, which allows him to manage his business while learning. His dad plays a big role in helping with tasks like weed eating and teaching Elliot how to approach work with discipline and a strong work ethic.
The biggest challenge Elliot faces is managing large leaf piles, but he relies on the support of his siblings to help when needed. As he continues to grow his business, he hopes to invest in new equipment, including a push lawn mower, weed eater, and leaf blower. His mom is especially proud of the opportunity this venture provides her children, teaching them responsibility and the value of community service.