Mayes Wins First Place in MSU Startup Summit

Tylan Mayes, a senior at Corinth High School, won first place in the high school division of the Mississippi State University Startup Summit, hosted by the Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach. Tylan won $5,000 to invest in his startup business, Ty’s Mobile Barbering Service.

The Startup Summit was held on April 10 in Starkville. The purpose of the Startup Summit is for high school and college students, as well as new startups, to pitch their business ideas for a chance to win cash prizes from the $100,000 pool to jumpstart, fund or invest in their businesses. All participants created a business plan and a video about their potential startup. Business plans were evaluated based on an in-person presentation on proposed technology, management, financials, and market potential.

Tylan came up with his innovative business idea after noticing a need in the community. “My business is cutting hair, but a lot of people don’t have time to go to a barbershop,” said Tylan. “Or they just want a more chill, relaxed time while getting their haircut. So I came up with Ty’s Mobile Barbering Service where I come to the client and give them the barbershop experience where they are located.” 

Tylan learned about the Startup Summit from Mrs. Kasey Atkins, one of the career coaches at Corinth High School. “Mrs. Atkins figured I would be interested in this event,” said Tylan. “So I looked into it and it instantly caught my eye! I felt shocked but great when I won—one of the best feelings I have had. Honestly, with there being so many of us competing and me not knowing the other individual pitches, it made me a little nervous.”

Attendees at the Startup Summit included over 50 startups and potential investors, giving students a chance to network with business professionals as well as fellow entrepreneurs and students. “I competed against 20 other high school students during the event, although I didn’t hear the other student presentations,” Tylan said. “But I was able to catch some college students’ pitches. There are some amazing things being done, which have me more excited to become a MSU Bulldog!” Tylan is attending MSU this fall and majoring in business administration. 

Tylan enjoyed the entire Startup Summit experience. “My favorite part of this experience was the community,” Tylan said. “Never did I feel unwelcome in the whole event. There was always great energy from everyone, and I even met a couple of buddies.”

The future is bright for Tylan as he takes the next steps in his business and in his educational journey. “My next steps with my business are going to be great steps as long as I keep walking alongside God and keeping Him my number ONE priority,” said Tylan. “Winning is going to give me a great jumpstart by showing others who can help me along the way, or just coming along with me that I’m here to become successful and reach my dreams/goals and always bet on myself! Go big or go home!”

Corinth High School teachers and staff are proud to have Tylan as a Corinth Warrior. “Tylan is a wonderful young man who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and excellent interpersonal skills with both his peers and adults,” said Adam Kirk, principal at Corinth High School. “He is responsible, self-motivated, and takes pride in everything he does. We are all excited for Tylan and what the future holds for him. His love for people, dedication to his craft, and talent in barbering will serve him well for many years to come.” Congratulations to Tylan on this amazing achievement!