Last year, Cascades Academy sixth-grader Nolan Thomson took his passion for food to the next level by creating “Nolan’s Nurfin’ Spice Mix” in a new Middle School Entrepreneurship Club. The club, a student-requested initiative co-developed with teachers, allows students to dive into the business world.
Nolan and his fellow club members identified a product or service to sell and researched pricing, packaging, and marketing. From there, they created a business plan and ultimately manufactured and sold their creations to the Cascades Academy community at the annual Spring Entrepreneurship Club Marketplace.
“I love cooking and wanted to create a product I’d use myself and that others could enjoy, too,” said Nolan. “My spice mix is low in sodium and works great on chicken, pork, and mushroom dishes.” The blend is also made without garlic or onion to meet certain dietary needs.
“Student-driven clubs are just one of many unique offerings that support our commitment to hands-on, real-world learning,” said Cascades Academy Head of School Julie Amberg. “These programs empower students to take ownership of their ideas.”
Nolan and Dom
Nolan’s journey didn’t stop at the school marketplace. Over the summer, he took his spice mix to the Kids’ Entrepreneur Market, a community event that allows young entrepreneurs to showcase their products. There, he met Chef Instructor Dom Shorthouse from Central Oregon Community College’s Cascade Culinary Institute, who found Nolan’s spice mix so unique and flavorful that he decided to feature it in a dish, "Nurfin' Chicken," at the College’s restaurant, Elevation.
“I was impressed with Nolan’s passion and diligence to test and make a spice rub that was not only delicious, but he had taken the care to make it work for his mom’s dietary restrictions,” said Dom. “I wanted to rotate Nolan’s Nurfin’ Chicken onto Elevation’s menu to highlight a local ingredient and the diners loved it. We had a lot of positive feedback from guests, chefs, and staff.”
For Nolan, the entrepreneurial spirit runs in the family. His mother, Katie Thomson, is the co-founder and CEO of Square Baby, a direct-to-consumer organic baby food company, where Nolan’s father, Kevin, serves as Chief Creative Officer. Growing up in such an innovative environment, Nolan was already familiar with the hard work, creativity, and strategic thinking required to launch a business.
Nurfin' Chicken
“I learn from my mom and how she pitches her product to potential clients and investors,” said Nolan. “She gives me tips and is also helping other students in this year’s club.”
"The entire process, from concept to pricing strategy to selling at the market, has offered important challenges and given Nolan such confidence," said Katie. "Watching him develop his own product, learning firsthand how to bring it to market, and witnessing him refine his pitch has been incredible as a parent and fellow entrepreneur."
The COCC experience culminated in a special visit to Elevation, where Nolan and his family were treated to lunch and a behind-the-scenes restaurant tour.
"Seeing his spice mix on the menu was an unforgettable moment. It’s the culmination of his passion for cooking, putting himself out there, and taking risks," Katie adds.
“It’s a really amazing dish,” said Nolan. “And I got a new buyer from someone who ordered the Nurfin’ Chicken and then wanted to buy the spice mix!”