Startup Alleghenies entrepreneurs earn funding in local competition Craft It, Pitch It, Win It!
On April 10, the Altoona LaunchBox, supported by the Hite family and the Penn State Altoona Sheetz Fellows Program, held their Craft It, Pitch It, Win It! competition, and the results are in! Three local creative businesses were awarded $10,000 to enhance their marketing efforts.
“Our region is rich with creative entrepreneurs—crafters and makers doing and sharing what they love!” Jessica Lattanza, Hite Family Director of the Altoona LaunchBox at Penn State Altoona, said. “These creators are often micro-businesses operating as solopreneurs and are struggling to figure out how to ‘do it all.’ While never short on passion and perseverance, access to resources and funding can be difficult for crafters and makers.”
Finalists presented their marketing pitch to a panel of three judges, and prizes were awarded to the top three participants:
The $6,000 first-place prize went to Kustom King Traditional Archery LLC. Ned Miller and his family create artisanal archery items, from meticulously handcrafted bows to bespoke DIY kits and an array of archery supplies. Miller said, “We had such a great time as a family listening to the other presentations and learning more about the local craft businesses. Our biggest takeaway was the fact that our local area has some amazing craftsmen and artists!”
Tyler Hunter of Timber Bear Woodworks LLC took home second place and $3,000. The company is a client of Startup Alleghenies, working with Blair County coach Matt Fox. Timber Bear Woodworks, located in Bellwood, PA, offers modernized woodworking services and premium hardwoods, kiln drying, salvaged lumber, and more for the weekend DIY to the professional carpenter and tradesman, all with a focus on sustainability.
Third-place winners Mambo Partners LLC dba The Spice Sisters, who create globally inspired and locally crafted chutneys and condiments, took home a $1,000 prize. The Johnstown-based small business works with Cambria County coach Blake Fleegle.
“Our panel of judges was very impressed with both the concepts and passion heard during the Craft It, Pitch It, Win It! competition. The Altoona LaunchBox is thrilled to help these creative entrepreneurs grow their business, audience, and revenue!” Lattanza concluded.
This project was partially financed by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community & Economic Development.
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
