Elevate Entrepreneurs compete in Elevator Pitch Competition

On Tuesday evening, April 28, several members of the Elevate Entrepreneurs class at Elevate Branson had a unique opportunity to present their business ideas, receive feedback and compete for cash prizes at an “Elevator Pitch Competition.” 

Styled like the “Shark Tank” TV show, the four entrepreneurs were allotted three minutes each to introduce themselves and their business name; describe their product or service; describe their prospective customer base and how they differ from anticipated competition in their proposed location area; briefly describe the operation and their marketing techniques; and wrap up with a strong conclusion. 

Serving as judges for the competition were Jeremy Goggans, Economic Development Director for the Table Rock Lake Area Chamber of Commerce; Kari Garrison, vocalist with Clay Cooper’s Country Express theater show; and Josh Clark, area radio personality. Following each presentation, the judges in turn asked clarifying questions and made suggestions. 

The competitors and their businesses for this competition included—

●      Glenda Youngblood, who is opening a candy store and confectionery that will feature coffee, games and candy, including specialty candies from other countries; 

●       Ryan Breit, M & R Solutions LLC, a vending service geared toward 24-hour guest service and specializing in healthier snack and drink options; 

●      Andrea and Nick Campisi, Ozark Discovery Lab, a mobile science lab offering hands-on and video presentations about Ozarks animals, water and more, available for school groups and special events; 

●      Keaton Holland and Ariana Deterding, Formation Industries, safety and security consulting and training for businesses, churches, etc. to help develop safety plans and procedures. 

It was a tough decision for the judges, with all of the presentations having strong points, but Holland and Deterding captured the top honors for the evening. Judges commented on their well-developed marketing plan and the use of statistics showing the need for such services. 

Have a side hustle or a great idea that you’d like to turn into a profitable business? Elevate Entrepreneurs might be just the opportunity you’ve been needing to get off to a great start, learning the business basics vital to success. Visit www.elevatebranson.org or email program director Chris Hunter at Chris.Hunter@ElevateBranson.Org to learn more about upcoming classes.