Local small business contest highlights creative products and services
# **Berks County Spotlights Innovation: Local Entrepreneurs Shine in Pitch Contest**
## **A Stage for Fresh Ideas**
In a dynamic showcase of Berks County’s entrepreneurial spirit, twelve ambitious founders took the spotlight in June, pitching their visionary business concepts to a panel of thirteen esteemed judges. The stakes? Prize money to fuel their next growth phase.
## **The Winners: Bold Ideas Take Home the Gold**
### **🥇 First Place: $1,000**
**Jessica King – ElderCARE Collaborative**
With fifteen years of hands-on experience, King empowers families grappling with senior care decisions. Her business, ElderCARE Collaborative, offers clarity and support to those navigating the complexities of aging loved ones. The $1,000 prize will help expand her impact.
🥈 Second Place: $600
Tom & Kim Chilton – Garden Infuzions Infused olive oils aren’t just for cooking—they’re flavor adventures. Chilton’s company crafts wild, gourmet blends like "New York Pizza" and "Philly Cheesesteak." Catch their creations at the Fairgrounds Farmers Market (Thursdays–Saturdays).
🥉 Third Place: $400
Annette Faust – A Box of Berks and Beyond A gift basket with a local twist. Since 2017, Faust has delivered curated boxes of Berks County’s finest flavors, offering homesick customers an edible taste of home. Her $400 prize will help refine her offerings.
The Backbone of Growth: Berks LaunchBox
This contest underscored the vital role of Berks LaunchBox, a program equipping small businesses with tools for success—from marketing to product development. Winners received expert feedback, sharpening their pitches for future challenges.
A testament to Berks County’s thriving economy—and the bold dreams driving it forward.
