CEO Pitch Competition Highlights Innovation and Real World Skills
The Kankakee County CEO Pitch Competition took place on April 8, 2026 at Peddinghaus Corporation, where our students stepped forward to present the businesses they have been developing throughout the year.
A sincere thank you to our judges for sharing their time and expertise: Leonel Jaramillo of the Kankakee ECDA, Denise Smith of Essential Smoothies, and Paul Zens of LaBeau Brothers.
Congratulations to our student entrepreneurs:
• 1st Place: Miles Yohnka, junior at Kankakee High School
• 2nd Place: Katherine Arenas, senior at Kankakee High School
We also celebrate the strong presentations from Gabriella Fuentes and Henry Joiner, who represented their businesses with professionalism and confidence.
Participating in a pitch competition gives students valuable, real-world experience, including:
• Building confidence in public speaking and presenting ideas
• Learning how to clearly communicate a business concept and value proposition
• Receiving constructive feedback from experienced professionals
• Thinking critically under pressure during Q&A
• Strengthening problem-solving and adaptability skills
We appreciate Peddinghaus Corporation, our judges, and the board members, mentors, and community members who supported this event and continue to invest in the future of these young entrepreneurs.
Kankakee Economic and Community Development Agency
LaBeau Bros. Inc.
Essential Smoothies
Peddinghaus Corporation
