Finalists of the 16th annual Rocket Pitch Competition pitched their businesses before panels of judges for a chance at winning a share of $42k in cash and services.
The Competition, founded by the BEDC, has helped to launch or expand over 50 businesses. Twelve budding entrepreneurs pitched their ideas at the newly renovated Pier Six, Waterfront Complex. Attendees and judges were presented with business ideas ranging from a local cinnamon bun bakery to a new counselling and wellness services business. Hopeful entrepreneurs pitched in six categories including Pitch Pink (tourism focused solutions), Pitch Tech (technology focused), Pitch Town (businesses with the local community in mind), Pitch Green (an eco-friendly solution), Youth Pitch (for under 18yr olds) and Pitch Food & Bev (business ideas that contribute to the Food & Beverage industry).
First place and second place winners were chosen for each category with each finalist walking away with a cash prize: 1st Place $5,000 & 2nd Place $2,000 – and a startup services package, sponsored by local businesses.
Youth Pitch (Sponsored By Arch Re)
1st Place: Paintz – A face-painting and body art business with curated face designs for all ages, events and themes by Zea Swainson.
2nd Place: Forevergreen – A lawn mowing company providing affordable, high-quality lawn care by Shammai Smith, Jahmai Davis & Kaiden Chew.
Pitch Tech (Sponsored By Economic Development Department)
1st Place: Kustom Kitz 3D – A business focused on utilizing 3D printing and lithium batteries to create pocket generators to keep Wi-Fi and electronics powered by John Payne.
2nd Place: Here 4 You – A comprehensive on-demand digital solution for all things special needs in Bermuda by Thea Furbert.
Pitch Green (Sponsored By BEDC)
1st Place: Summer By Kelie – A clothing brand that focuses on sustainability, ethical printing, and inclusivity by Kelie Rabain.
2nd Place: Auto Magic – A car washing business focused on utilizing eco-friendly and sustainable practices as well as offering scents for cars by Carlita Trott.
Pitch Town (Sponsored By One Communications)
1st Place: Cocoon Work – A company that offers self-guided therapeutic tools, 1-1 therapy, and a unique variety of group therapeutic experiences by Camille Creary.
2nd Place: Lookie Lookie – A business that focuses on being the ultimate small business hub Connecting you to Bermuda’s small business community by Kimwana Eve.
Pitch Pink (Sponsored By The Bermuda Tourism Authority)
1st Place: PR Bermuda – A service-based business providing romantic experiences on the picturesque island of Bermuda by Tomika Smith.
2nd Place: Sea Breeze Wellness Retreats – A business focused on wellness tourism by incorporating wellness, cuisine, culture, movement, mindfulness, and relaxation by Dallanika Hayward.
Pitch Food & Beverage (Sponsored By Bacardi Ltd.)
1st Place: Prep’d – A quality meal preparation business focused on being fresh, healthy, local, and easy by Jennifer Woods.
2nd Place: Brixx Bunz – A homemade cinnamon rolls business focused on being handcrafted with a commitment to explosive flavor by Brittany Cox.
People’s Choice Award (Sponsored By One Communications & 24/7 Ink)
Winner: Paintz – The People’s Choice award was chosen via a live poll where 364 people voted, including viewers in attendance and those watching the live stream. This award was sponsored in part by One Communications and 24/7 Ink, with the winner taking home one year of 1 Gigabit of internet and a $200 certificate to services by 24/7 Ink. Zea Swainson of Paintz was the crowd favorite, receiving 31% of the vote and winning the coveted prize.
