And That’s a Wrap on Project Money Season 17

Wow – now that was an impressive Project Money season! These four inspiring teams had their foot on the gas for seven months – cruising towards more savings, less debt and better financial habits.

Throughout the course of all 17 Project Money seasons, participants have reduced debt by $704,558 and saved over $682,037! As this year’s teams reflect back on their journey with pride, take some time to read about their wins, challenges and takeaways – and maybe even use their insights to make a change in your financial life!

Dawn and Marco – Taking Home the Title and $10,000!

This winning team left us awestruck! Dawn and Marco transformed during Project Money, beginning their journey just trying to survive month to month. Now, they have a firm grip on where their money is going, and they feel comfortable having financial conversations with the people they trust. In fact, they plan to continue to meet with their financial coach Jess at least twice a year! They feel confident about the future and are excited to continue the habits they worked so hard to create.

How has this program changed their life?

“Taking control of our finances has reduced stress, improved our communication and given us a sense of confidence and stability we’ve never had before. We feel empowered instead of anxious, and we’re now making decisions proactively rather than reactively.”

Advice they’d give to a new Project Money team:

“Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. More people are where you are than you think, and Summit has so many tools to help you be successful. Money isn’t just about numbers; it’s about behavior, and changing behavior is hard without guidance or accountability.”

Their “aha” moment:

“Realizing that progress doesn’t come from perfection – it comes from consistency. Once we built systems and habits that worked for our real life, everything clicked. Money stopped feeling overwhelming and started feeling manageable.”

Dawn and Marco’s sound bite about money:

“We finally tell our money where to go instead of wondering where it went.”

Emily and Maddie

Project Money might be officially over for Emily and Maddie, but they plan to act like participants as they navigate this next chapter of life. The accountability from each other and their financial coach, Ashley, made sure they stayed on track and had even more savings to show at each financial check-in.

How has this experience impacted Emily and Maddie?

“We grew closer as a couple and realized we have so much support around us. We can now talk about money very casually, without stress or anxiety. Money no longer keeps us up at night, and we even feel ready to start a family of our own because of our newfound peace of mind.”

Advice they’d give to a new Project Money team:

“Start by paying off smaller debt first. Celebrate your wins and then start tackling your next goal.”

Their “aha” moment:

“Make your money work for you! Use high-yield savings accounts, certificates and even start investing.”

Where do Emily and Maddie see themselves in five years?

“With one or two kids and possibly moving into a bigger home to better fit our family. We’ll be growing real wealth and providing for our family without worry.”

Ifeanyi

For Ifeanyi, Project Money was all about momentum. Once he was able to embrace vulnerability, he stopped avoiding his finances and started making consistent progress towards his goals. By the end of the program, he had achieved what he set out to do – create a budgeting system that works, reduce debt and build savings with consistency.

How does he plan to keep the momentum going?

“I plan to continue budgeting, tracking my expenses and making purposeful financial decisions instead of emotional ones. These habits give me clarity and control."

His key factors to success:

“Being honest with myself, staying consistent, tracking spending in real time and celebrating small wins. And don’t be afraid to ask for help – guidance makes a huge difference.”

How has this experience impacted his family?

“More peace, stability and unity. There’s less stress and more communication about money. Moving forward, I want to start investing and preparing an emergency fund.”

Ifeanyi’s “aha” moment:

“Money isn’t just about numbers. It’s about mindset, habits and values. Once I understood the emotional side of my spending, everything clicked.”

Kelli

Kelli came into Project Money with a clear objective: Make changes now that lead her and her kids to a bright future. Her goal-focused mindset helped her save for her daughter’s college tuition, better prepare for retirement and become debt free! No more playing catchup at the end of the month for Kelli – she prioritizes her spending and knows exactly where her money is going.

What was a key factor in Kelli’s success?

“Taking time to learn! I constantly listened to podcasts, read books and asked questions. I will continue to learn and grow so I can do more without relying on debt.”

How has this experience impacted her family?

“My kids have watched me throughout this experience – listening to me talk about budgeting and save for what is important. My hope is that they will both learn from me and save more intentionally.”

Advice she’d give to a new Project Money team:

“Rather than look at your bank accounts at the end of the month and hope you have money left over, make a plan for your money. Know how much comes in and how much your bills add up to.”

Her “aha” moment:

“When I first decided I wanted to contribute towards my daughter’s tuition, my financial coach Jenny had me put that amount in the budget right away. It helped me to see that it was possible to reach the goal if I made it a priority.”