Students turned their love for their pets into a business breakthrough

Owners can eliminate the stress of shopping for their pet by subscribing to the monthly gift box filled with food, toys, cleaning products, and accessories tailored to the specific needs of the pet.

Pedicures, pivots, and profits

The journey toward the creation of WellPets was full of trial and error, but we used what we learned in class about the real-world tools and methodologies of entrepreneurs to rise to the challenge. We started out with a paw-cleaning device called Paw Pedicure but weren’t able to create a functional prototype. We pivoted pretty late in the year and wanted to change our idea but still keep the pet component. Although a switch in strategy, we realized much of our extensive research and customer feedback still applied since we were staying within the same market.

Once the concept for WellPets was ready to be pitched, we saw an opportunity for additional revenue by creating a subscription box. The financials took some work, but we got there and worked through it as a team.

Accountability in remote learning

COVID-19 drastically changed the way we attended classes. The shift to online or hybrid learning meant we were unable to interact with each other in person. Holding business meetings was especially difficult as the team members were not in school on the same days, and some were learning from home full time. Technology like Zoom and group chats helped us stay in touch. We adapted to the environment by texting the group and constantly communicating to make sure we got our work done on time.

Being that we were all on different schedules, we quickly realized the need to focus according to our personal strengths and interests. For example, Sasha has an interest in general business, Ben in the financial part, and Michael more marketing, so we each focused on those areas. We held each other accountable and learned to work as a team to accomplish our goals and meet deadlines.

Announcing the players of the future 

High school students may join entrepreneurship or business programs for a variety of reasons. Many are attracted to the fun and collaborative atmosphere. Others appreciate the opportunity to create and develop a product or start-up under the guidance of teachers and mentors while gaining valuable insight into the world of business.

Jason enrolled in the course with an exciting career already in mind. My dream is to become a sports play-by-play announcer. In order to do that, I must be a very good speaker. The coursework teaches us how to speak in front of colleagues, mentors, and potential investors, encouraging eloquence and self-confidence. Going through the INCubatoredu course, we have learned so much regarding the elevator pitch and how to speak publicly.

WellPets won first place at our school’s pitch competition and the team plans to continue marketing to gain awareness and brainstorming methods for revenue generation. WellPets simply started from our love of pets and we will continue to expand it to make sure all pets stay healthy.