Kalispell Middle School entrepreneur wins statewide pitch competition

Kalispell Middle School student Duke Rauscher was named a state winner in the Montana Chamber Foundation’s Prospects competition for his small business, Rapid Fire Montana.

He earned the top spot in the Existing Business Idea category for grades K-8 in the virtual statewide entrepreneurship competition. The Prospects competition challenges K-12 students to pitch their business ideas and growth plans.  

Rauscher was recognized for the business model, financial success and growth plans he presented to judges for Rapid Fire Montana. The business produces eco-friendly fire starters made from paraffin wax and recycled cardboard sourced from local businesses to reduce waste. 

"I have already proven I can do it. I started this business at age 9 and now I am shipping fire starters all over the country. I am just getting started,” Rauscher said in a press release. 

Rauscher founded the business three years ago while devising a solution for starting fires in his family’s wood stove. His business has grown into an enterprise that includes partnerships with local stores such as Rocky Mountain Outfitters in Kalispell and a presence at regional craft shows. 

In addition to a written business plan, he made a video showing the production process and the utility of his fire starters, which are designed to withstand the rugged backcountry conditions. 

For more information about Rapid Fire Montana, visit rapidfiremontana.com.