Recent graduates of a local business accelerator program competed in Union Bankâs third annual start-up pitching competition on December 18, and out of nine contestants, three entrepreneursâall women of colorâwon the contest and were awarded funding for their companies.
The event was the latest held by Connect All @ the Jacobs Center, an accelerator dedicated to minority-owned companies. Contestants completed a four-month training program, and then had just five minutes to pitch their ideas in a video presentation to a panel of judges.
The first-place winner is Anahi Abe-Brower, founder of Worthy Picks, a line of reusable utensils, straws, toothbrushes, and other household goods made out of sustainable materials such as bamboo and organic cotton. Abe-Brower won $7,500 to support and expand her business. Her products can be ordered through her website and are also found in local boutiques, like Pigment.