Student Pitch Competition

Thank you to the Tri-C students who showcased their innovative business ideas and the community who came to support these entrepreneurs!

This event was cohosted by the School of Business, Legal Professions and Hospitality and The Center for Entrepreneurs!

Meet the 2026 Entrepreneurs

Jessika Stone - First place winner ($5,000)
Groomed by Jessika LLC
Coach: Holly Craider, Ph.D., J.D.

Christopher Gillooly - Second place winner ($4,000)
Downhill Audio
Coach: Valerie Smart

Baisat Babalola - Third place winner ($3,000)
Beisor Accessories
Coach: Sharnise Sears

Raven Walker - Fourth place winner ($2,000)
Living for Epilepsy
Coach: Derrick L. Williams, Ph.D.

Teeana Newell - "Fan Favorite" ($1,000)
Loving Me for Me Inc.
Coach: Clotea Mack

Carmen Huff Carmen S. Huff
Carmen Simonne Cigars
Coach: Bradley Lipinski

Fallon Greer
Fallon’s Fruit Trays
Coach: Deonna Taylor, Ed.D.

For more information, contact Tasha Wilburn.

This event is sponsored by the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship’s Everyday Entrepreneur Venture Fund and cohosted by the School of Business, Legal Professions and Hospitality and The Center for Entrepreneurs.

Past Pitch Competitions

Congratulations to the Tri-C student pitchers who participated in the Pitch Competition on April 30, 2025.

First Place ($2,000) and “Fan Favorite” ($500): Lovely O’Neal
Business: Twa’Lovely Pantry
Offering convenient and budget-friendly meal solutions, Twa’Lovely Pantry delivers home-style meals and time-saving meal prep kits that ease the stress of cooking.
Coach: Holly Craider, Associate Vice President, Curriculum, Assessment and Accreditation, Adjunct Faculty

Second Place ($1,000): Maureen Gray-O’Shea
Business: Mo’s Bee Balm
A natural skin care and pain relief product crafted to soothe, heal and nourish. Mo’s Bee Balm is ideal for individuals seeking holistic wellness and comfort.
Coach: Chris Patterson, Adjunct Faculty, Business Management

Third Place ($500): Riyan Sita
Business: Ravana Cartel Comic Magazine
A monthly print and digital publication that brings original storytelling to life through engaging comic art and dynamic narratives.
Coach: Bradley Lipinski, Associate Professor, Philosophy

Ja’kaila S. Banks
Business: Delicious Delights
A refreshing, allergy-friendly treat made with natural fruits and fresh water. This dairy- and nut-free Water Ice offers a smooth, flavorful experience similar to Italian ice—perfect for all ages and dietary preferences.
Coach: Hubert Littleton, Liaison, Access Center

Jasmine S. Howard
Business: RJ’s Goodies & Creations
Providing customized apparel for individuals and organizations, RJ’s brings creativity and personalization to everyday fashion and branding needs.
Coach: Jumar Newell, CEO, LaunchArts Media

Sharmir Oglesby
Business: Put It On Wax Initiative
A creative wax exhibition honoring influential historical and contemporary figures. This initiative preserves their legacies through lifelike artistic representation.
Coach: Deonna Moore Taylor, Western Division Director, Toastmasters International

Chayenne Padgett
Business: Chay’s Soul Kitchen
A full-service catering and baking company specializing in soulful, flavorful dishes for private parties and large-scale events.
Coach: Monica Starks, Adjunct Professor, Sociology