(FLINT, Mich., Nov. 15, 2024) Six small businesses were awarded $30,000 in prizes at the Two-Lane Fast Pitch Competition, hosted by the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance Small Business Support Hub and sponsored by The State Bank. Held Nov. 14, the event celebrated the passion and entrepreneurial spirit of local small business owners.
Finalists competed in one of two tracks. In the startup track – designed for businesses operating for more than one year and with 10 or fewer full-time employees – winners included:
- I Love Pig: $10,000
- Elle Jae Essentials: $6,000
- TDH Consulting: $4,000
In the micro-business track – designed for businesses operating for less than one year as of Nov.14, 2024 – winners included:
- Agape Home Care Services: $5,000
- Casa Amigos: $3,000
- AT4: $2,000
“We were impressed with the caliber of the presentations,” said Karena Hamlet, program director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, a division of the Flint & Genesee Group. “Each of these entrepreneurs demonstrated passion for their businesses and the potential to impact our community. We’re thrilled to support their next steps toward success.”
The competition provided a platform for the six finalists to present their business pitches before a panel of judges. The finalists, representing various industries, showcased their innovative ideas and potential to impact the local economy.
“Events like the Two-Lane Fast Pitch Competition are critical for helping small businesses overcome the barriers to accessing capital and resources,” said Leila Hathway, Vice President of Compliance at The State Bank. “These entrepreneurs aren’t just walking away with funding but also invaluable connections. If they didn’t already have a banking partner, they now have someone they can trust and reach out to. That’s huge in setting them up for future success.”
The event supports the Flint & Genesee Small Business Hub’s ongoing commitment to local businesses and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. To learn more about the Hub, visit DevelopFlintandGenesee.org/hub.