We are thrilled to announce the winners of the recent ELEVATE Mississippi Pitch Competition, a testament to the remarkable talent and entrepreneurial spirit flourishing in our community. This 12-week incubator program, presented by Our Village United and supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is designed to empower Mississippi residents who are small business owners in need of technical assistance to enhance their operations.
First place goes to Lakelia Jones, the visionary behind Sugar Beans Cafe. Anchored in Moss Point and serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast and surrounding areas, Sugar Beans Cafe is a mobile food trailer offering a delectable array of homemade burgers, tacos, desserts like their signature croffle (yes, we said croffle), and refreshing homemade lemonades. Congratulations, Lakelia, on your well-deserved win!
In second place, we have Robyn Noble Powell, the driving force behind Just Bee Helpin'. Just Bee Helpin' is a unique upscale errand running, day-of assistance, and concierge service dedicated to lightening the load and restoring balance to the lives of busy individuals. Robyn's passion and purpose shine through in her commitment to providing excellent, dependable, and professional assistance that enhances personal and business efficiency. Kudos, Robyn, on your remarkable achievement!
Rounding out the top three is April Gale, the culinary genius behind Good Cooking Catering. With a mission to provide exceptional catering services that exceed clients' expectations, Good Cooking Catering offers an extensive menu of fresh, high-quality dishes and exceptional service for events of all sizes and types. Congratulations, April, on your outstanding accomplishment!
The success of these entrepreneurs is a testament to the effectiveness of the ELEVATE Mississippi program and the unwavering support provided by Our Village United. Through resources, tools, mentorship, training, and wellness support, ELEVATE Mississippi moves businesses from aspiration to application, empowering solopreneurs and microbusinesses to thrive and grow.
At Mississippi Black Pages, we are proud to align with the mission of Our Village United and support initiatives like ELEVATE Mississippi that uplift and empower our community's entrepreneurs. By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and providing a framework for sustainable growth, we believe in creating a vibrant ecosystem where businesses can flourish and communities can thrive.
As we celebrate the success of these trailblazing entrepreneurs, let us also recognize the collective effort and dedication that make programs like ELEVATE Mississippi possible. Together, we can continue to build a future where all entrepreneurs have the resources and support they need to achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact on our community.
Congratulations once again to Lakelia Jones, Robyn Noble Powell, April Gale, and all the participants of the ELEVATE Mississippi Pitch Competition. Your determination, innovation, and resilience inspire us all, and we can't wait to see what incredible accomplishments lie ahead. Here's to a future filled with boundless opportunities and shared success!
For more information, about ELEVATE Mississippi, visit https://ourvillageunited.org/mississippi-programs. Be sure to tell them MBP sent you.
Photo credit: Our Village United, Inc.
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