BATTLE CREEK BUSINESS BOOT CAMP
6 ENTREPRENEURS. 3 DAYS. 1 PITCH COMPETITION WINNER.
This November we had the privilege of working with six good food entrepreneurs for a first-ever Business Boot Camp in Battle Creek. This intensive training gave participating entrepreneurs the skills to match their passion so they can take their business to the next level. Topics included marketing, telling your story, financials, solving business challenges, and more.
Three days together culminated in a pitch fest, where participating entrepreneurs shared their business stories to a panel of judges and a live audience.
Entrepreneurs share their biggest takeaway.
Sunlight Gardens took home the pitch fest's $10,000 prize! Co-owners Olivia Jayakar and Devon Wilson will use the award to purchase a tractor. This investment will greatly boost production on their small urban farm, which is not only providing residents wholesome, locally grown food, but also cultivating better health and consciousness through education and community engagement work.
Congratulations to all Business Boot Camp participants!
- EZ 2 Go Salads & Wraps: A family-owned business offering healthy lunch options featuring local produce, all at affordable prices.
- Farmers on the Move: The state’s only cooperative of Hispanic growers.
- Great Scott Ice Cream: A producer of seriously delicious frozen treats in creative flavor combinations using locally sourced ingredients.
- Green Gardens Farm: A diversified, 20-acre farm and four-season CSA serving the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo communities.
- Torti Taco: A family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine using fresh, local ingredients (plus a salsa bar!).
Want more? Dig into this Second Wave profile spotlighting the experience of Green Gardens farmer Trent Thompson.
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