$100 Challenge
Celebrating Young Entrepreurship and Creativity
Steph's Story
When Stephanie was 10 years old, her grandmother gave each of her three grandchildren $100 and challenged them to see who could grow it the most over the next year. Stephanie launched Styles by Steph, a jewelry business—and she won the challenge! That early experience sparked her passion for entrepreneurship and planted the seeds for what Bella Vita is today.
Introducing
The $100 Challenge
We're thrilled to launch The $100 Challenge and give three kids the same life-changing opportunity! Each participant will receive the modern-day equivalent of $100 ($435 to be exact) to kick-start their very own business or service. Over the course of a year, they'll build, create, grow and be mentored—and at the end, one grand prize winner will be selected based on their progress and impact.
When Stephanie was 10 years old, her grandmother challenged her three grandchildren to take $100 and see who could make it grow the furthest/biggest. Stephanie started Styles by Steph (a jewelry business), and won the contest. This kickstarted her love of entrepreneurship and laid the foundation for Bella Vita.
We are hoping to give kids the same kickstart. Open to ages 10-14, kids can apply to participate in the challenge by submiing their business ideas. 3-5 applicants will be selected to receive the equivalent of what $100 would be in today's money to act as seed money. They will have one year to grow their business, with one final winner selected based on their success.
How to Join
Interested in the challenge? Here’s how to participate:
1.
Apply online by July 31st, 2025.
2.
Submit your business idea along with a short video introduction.
3.
We’ll review all submissions and select 3 lucky participants on August 31, 2025. Then, the contest will officially kick off October 1, 2025.
4.
You'll have 1 year to grow your business as well as receive mentorship from Stephanie.
5.
A grand prize winner will be announced at our 25th Anniversary Celebration November 2026.
*Open to kids aged 10–14 years old
How to Join
Interested in the challenge? Here’s how to participate:
1. Apply online by July 31st, 2025.
2. Submit your business idea along with a short video introduction.
3. We’ll review all submissions and select 3 lucky participants on August 31, 2025. Then, the contest will officially kick off October 1, 2025.
4. You'll have 1 year to grow your business as well as receive mentorship from Stephanie.
5. A grand prize winner will be announced at our 25th Anniversary Celebration November 2026.
*Open to kids aged 10–14 years old
Submit an online application, including a simple business plan using our provided template and a 30–60 second video pitch introducing themselves and their business idea.
Receive $435 in seed funding if selected (mirroring the original $100 challenge adjusted for today's value).
Engage in quarterly check-ins and mentorship opportunities with Stephanie and team.
Present their progress and final outcomes at our Holiday Open House in November 2026.
Applications Close In...
Key Dates
June 22, 2025:
July 31, 2025:
August 2025:
October 2025 – October 2026:
November 2026:
Official contest launch
Application deadline
Contestants announced
Contest duration
Final winner announced at our 25th Anniversary Celebration
Eligibility Criteria
Ages 10–14 as of July 31, 2025
Reside within a 60-minute drive of one of our stores
Submit a new, original business idea (no existing businesses)
Obtain parental or guardian consent
Application Process
1. Online Submission
Complete the application form, which includes:
- Personal information
- Business plan details
- Video pitch upload
2. Review & Selection
Our panel will review submissions and select three participants to receive seed funding.
3. Program Participation
Selected participants will embark on a year-long journey of business development, mentorship, and growth.
Brainstorm Ideas
Every great business starts with a great idea—and we’re here to help you find yours. With our Brainstorm Sheet, you’ll discover creative prompts, helpful questions, and real-life examples to get your ideas flowing. Whether you love baking, building, or helping others, there’s a way to turn your interests into a business. Start exploring and see where your imagination takes you!
Get InspiredSubmit an online application, including a simple business plan using our provided template and a 30–60 second video pitch introducing themselves and their business idea.
Receive $435 in seed funding if selected (mirroring the original $100 challenge adjusted for today's value).
Engage in quarterly check-ins and mentorship opportunities with Stephanie and team.
Present their progress and final outcomes at our Holiday Open House in November 2026.
Brainstorm Ideas
Every great business starts with a great idea—and we’re here to help you find yours. On our Brainstorm Page, you’ll discover creative prompts, helpful questions, and real-life examples to get your ideas flowing. Whether you love baking, building, or helping others, there’s a way to turn your interests into a business. Start exploring and see where your imagination takes you!
Stephanie's Story
When Stephanie was just nine, a $100 challenge from her grandmother sparked a love for creativity and small business. That experience planted the seeds for what would later become Bella Vita. Stephanie's Journey is proof that a simple idea—and a little encouragement—can grow into something beautiful.
Apply Now
Ready to plant the seeds of your big idea? Apply today and take the first step toward launching your own business.
Get StartedHave Questions?
We’re here to help! Send us an email at
Terms & Conditions: Participants must commit to the full duration of the program (October 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026). Regular updates and check-ins are mandatory. All business activities must comply with local laws and regulations. Parental or guardian consent is required for all participants. Participants agree to allow the use of their images and business information for promotional purposes.
