Kalispell Middle School Entrepreneur Wins Statewide "Prospects" Pitch Competition

For Immediate Release

KALISPELL — Duke Rauscher, a Kalispell Middle School student and the creator of Rapid Fire Montana, has been named the statewide winner in the Existing Business Idea category for grades K-8 in the Montana Chamber Foundation's 2026 Prospects Pitch Competition.

The Prospects competition is a high-stakes, virtual statewide entrepreneurship contest designed to celebrate and reward Montana's K-12 students who demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset. After competing against students from across the state, Duke was recognized for his impressive business model, financial success, and future growth plans.

Duke founded Rapid Fire Montana three years ago at the age of nine. The business produces eco-friendly fire starters made from paraffin wax and recycled cardboard sourced from local businesses like Famous Footwear to reduce waste. What began as a solution for his own family's wood stove has grown into a thriving enterprise that includes retail partnerships with local stores like Rocky Mountain Outfitters and a robust presence at regional craft shows.

In addition to his written business plan, Duke produced a video showcasing his production process and the utility of his fire starters, which are designed to withstand the rugged conditions of the Montana backcountry.

You can visit Duke's Rapid Fire website at rapidfiremontana.com to learn more about his products and journey as a young Montana entrepreneur.

Click to watch Duke's pitch competition submission video on YouTube.