Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Malden, MA (June 2026) – Big ideas, bold pitches, and a real-world twist—Malden High School students stepped into the spotlight with their very own “Shark Tank”-style program, powered by a dynamic partnership with StonehamBank! This exciting collaboration gave students the chance to turn their creative ideas into real business concepts, pitch them like pros, and learn what it takes to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship.
“StonehamBank’s Shark Tank competition is something that motivates business management students all year at Malden High School,” noted MHS Business Teacher Kelle Griffin. “This hands-on experience challenges and motivates students to design and pitch a business model that is desirable to consumers, feasible to execute, and financially viable. This unique partnership with StonehamBank provides students with a rare opportunity to transform a mundane school project into a high motivation launchpad for Malden's next generation of business leaders.”
Student-entrepreneurs pitched their products to StonehamBank team members Chris Macomber, Shawn Kelley, Jeana DiBenedetto and Rob Berkovitz, answering questions and explaining processes.
“We love having the opportunity to see students present their business ideas to us,” noted Berkovitz. “I know, I truly enjoy listening to how enthusiastic and excited the students are about their ideas!”
Student Ruth Mekonnen, co-founder of this year's winning partnership named Flora & Fabric, noted after the event, "It was nice to develop a business about something for which I was passionate and to project how it could come to life. When I got the money, I was inspired to actually start the business."
Added her project partner student Taya Rubin-Wilson, “It was a really fun experience to learn what starting a business is all about and presenting it to people.” She also expressed an increased interest in pursuing business focused classes in the future as a result of her Shark Tank experience.
This partnership is just one example of StonehamBank’s ongoing commitment to financial literacy and empowering the next generation. By investing in programs like this—and through a similar “Shark Tank”-style collaboration with Stoneham High School—the bank is helping students build confidence, develop real-world skills, and turn smart ideas into bright futures.
About StonehamBank
StonehamBank is a full-service community mutual bank offering state-of-the-art products and services to residents and businesses throughout eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. With over 139 years of banking experience, StonehamBank provides progressive products and convenience services, and believes in making a difference in the community through its Community Involvement Program and Charitable Foundation. Member DIF. FDIC-Insured. Equal Housing Lender. For more information about StonehamBank, please visit www.stonehambank.com or call directly at 888-402-2265.
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