Global entrepreneurship education non-profit Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) has announced three cash prizes for student entrepreneurs, including two from the Black community.

Kiaira Merrill of Missouri's Saint Louis Science Center took home a $1,500 prize for KiaKoutur, a business that collaboratively upcycles used clothing to help recycle the Earth's resources.

Meanwhile, Malachi Davis and Ivan Walker of Illinois' Thornton Township High School earned $1,000 for their business, Nokki — an idea for an alternative sweetener that does not spike blood sugar.

“We are so proud of these brilliant young minds and in awe of their commitment to entrepreneurship and making a difference in this world,” Dr. J.D. LaRock, CEO of NFTE, said in a statement. “Through their creativity and original ideas, our students demonstrate the power of their generation to transform their communities. When young people are given a platform to sharpen their skills and rise to their full potential, our economy and society thrive.”

The competition was presented by Ernst & Young. The NFTE Midwest Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge is also supported by Horizon Therapeutics, Ingredion, Slalom, GSTV, and the Citi Foundation.

Lacey Muñoz-Swedberg of Wisconsin's Beloit Memorial High School placed third for her business, StudyLair. It provides a place for Beloit School District students to go year-round for tutoring, homework help, or to interact with other students. She won $500.

The young entrepreneurs will be presenting at the national finals in New York on Oct. 3 to compete for additional cash prizes.