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The Buzz at Bangor Township

So, picture this: a Wednesday night at the John Glenn High School auditorium, November 12, in the vibrant Bangor Township. Five brave souls strut their stuff, pitching their dreams at the 2025 Business by the Bay Pitch Competition. All eyes were on them because a hefty $11,750 in cash prizes was dangling there like the Golden Fleece.

A Stage Set for New Ideas

The Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) orchestrated this show, with contestants honing their crafts through intensive workshops. These weren’t your average PowerPoint warriors; they were polished, prepped, and primed, presenting to both judges and a curious live crowd.

Winners with Heart

Enter Malynnda Stewart, owner of Compassionate Navigation LLC. She snagged the top prize of $5,000. Her venture helps families and caregivers navigate health care and life hurdles. Talk about a heart of gold.

Following her, Lily Boehm’s Curious Minds Club charmed its way into second, earning $3,500. Her gig? Sparking creativity in young minds. Who wouldn’t want in on that?

And in the bronze position, Ashley Kirby, the brains behind Turkey Bob Books, pocketed $1,500. Not too shabby, right?

A Sweet End and Community Spirit

Fourth place was a sugary affair held by Jennifer Barcia with her Sweets and Boujee. She snagged $1,000, including a Fan Favorite nod. Meanwhile, Maria Sian of Great Lakes Healthcare Training Center got $750 for her efforts in healthcare education.

Michelle Judd, SBDC consultant, couldn’t have been prouder as she lauded the contestants’ growth. “Their ideas, determination, and passion for community growth truly embody the spirit of Business by the Bay,” she mused.

A Community Gathering

The event was free and public, pulling a crowd eager to mingle and munch. With voting in full swing, a sense of camaraderie filled the air.

Sponsors and Support

Backed by local bigwigs like Huntington Bank and Bay County Growth Alliance, the competition stood strong. Shout out to start-up sponsors like United Bay Community Credit Union and others for their undying support.

SBDC’s Unyielding Support

But here’s the pièce de résistance: the Michigan SBDC offers no-cost consulting, training, and market research to Michigan’s entrepreneurs. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.

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