HopeWorks, a Camden-based nonprofit that propels young people ages 17 to 27 into long-term living-wage careers, held its annual Spring Pitch Competition on April 13 at the organization’s headquarters .
The competition was offered to Hopeworks trainees, interns, and alumni who were given the opportunity to pitch their business ideas and services to a panel of esteemed judges and win cash prizes and funding for their entrepreneurial endeavors. .
The 2024 contest was a huge success, with five entrepreneurs winning cash prizes and a total of $9,000 in funding.
After hearing from a variety of industries, from fashion and beauty to agriculture and culinary arts, a jury was convened to select some of the best ideas from high-profile entrepreneurs.
Grand Prize Winner: $4,000
Lola, Lola’s Nail Cafe: Lola is a nail artist specializing in acrylic, GelX, and gel manicures and takes pride in providing intricate nail art for her clients.
Runner-up: $2,000
Jeremiah, Precision Craft Studio: Jeremiah won second place for two businesses under the Precision Craft Studios umbrella: FloraHouse and Petal Pods. Each offers unique party favors to their customers.
3rd place winners: $1,000 each
anthony, king cole art; Zhenya, soaked in niya; and Nick, minimal apparel.
“We are extremely grateful for the support and recognition from Hopeworks and our judges. This victory is not just a personal victory, but a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in entrepreneurship. With this funding, I’m excited to take Lola’s Nail Cafe to new heights and continue to have a positive impact on our community,” said grand prize winner Lola.
Generous donations from Block Inc. (launch sponsor), Wasserman Properties (scale sponsor), and NJM Insurance Group (idea sponsor) will help get these startup businesses off the ground and facilitate valuable networking opportunities. It was helpful.
Following the pitch presentation, Hopeworks organized a vendor showcase to allow entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services.
“At HopeWorks, we believe in the power of entrepreneurship and the transformative impact it has on individuals and communities. Our annual pitch competition is a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas. and serve as a platform for them to receive the funds they need to realize their business dreams,” said Angel Serrano, HopeWorks Senior Director of Development. “Through our annual pitch competition, we aim to level the playing field and create a space where all ambitious entrepreneurs can succeed. By investing in these innovators, we aim to We believe in not only supporting individual businesses, but also stimulating economic growth and creating positive change in our communities.”
