INDIANAPOLIS — Four central Indiana business were awarded thousands of dollars in a "Shark Tank" style competition.
PitchFeast, in partnership with IMPACT Central Indiana, held the competition on Oct. 10 and awarded a total of $55,000 in startup capital to minority-owned business owners.
The competition showcased 10 entrepreneurs who presented their businesses to a panel of investors, officials said.
The IMPACT Central Indiana PitchFeast winners were:
- First prize ($25,000): Lux Beauty Spa
- Second prize ($15,000): Sweetie's Candy Boutique & Emporium
- Third prize ($10,000): T Street Eatz
- Audience choice ($5,000): The Mental Health Spa
“Winning these funds will directly enhance Lux Beauty Spa by allowing us to upgrade equipment, the salon, and elevate our salon’s overall experience," said Suzanne Michael, owner of Lux Beaty Spa. We will train our team to support clients facing mental health and self-esteem challenges. This funding will also enhance our marketing efforts and expand our community outreach to offer more grooming services for underprivileged youth and adults, helping us uplift those in need while growing our business to its full potential.”
Since 2021, officials said IMPACT Central Indiana PitchFeast has invested over $500,000 into local minority-owned businesses, supporting a total of 29 central Indiana entrepreneurs.
"Our latest IMPACT Central Indiana PitchFeast business pitch competition was a tremendous achievement," said Kendrea Williams, founder and executive director of PitchFeast. "This event continues to play a crucial role in the Indiana business landscape by providing accessible funding to Black and Brown entrepreneurs."
