Sweet Dream Kit

At Intermediate School for Math and Science in New York City, six sixth graders joined the Enterprise Challenge Club and got to work tackling a problem they knew too many students face. After weighing different business ideas, the team landed on something practical and personal: a bed bug detection and prevention kit called the Sweet Dream Kit.

The idea came from noticing that many of their peers rely on public transportation, which increases the risk of carrying pests on clothing and backpacks. Their product was designed with care, empathy, and a real solution in mind.

Learning Through Challenge

Public speaking was one of the team’s biggest challenges. Some students were nervous about presenting in front of an audience, while others focused on design, writing, or research. With support and practice, they all found ways to contribute and build something together.

One of their boldest moves was reaching out to a Rutgers University professor who specializes in bed bugs. The professor helped them understand what works and what doesn’t exist in existing products. That conversation gave the team both credibility and a boost of confidence.

Growth Beyond the Competition

The team made it all the way to the Regional Finals, which was a huge win. They didn’t take home the national title, but they left the program with stronger research skills, more confidence as public speakers, and a deeper understanding of how to work as a team.

As their Student Success Coach Samuel Bowen shared, “The growth they have shown has been incredible. I hope they continue to build on this experience because what they made is truly special.”