Local entrepreneurs take off with Ignite Portsmouth
From left to right: Trevor Bihl, Candy Frazier, Abby Spears, Ben Shinkle, Mary McFarland, Trampas Nolan
Shawnee State University’s Kricker Innovation Hub (KIH) hosted their second annual Ignite Portsmouth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp and Pitch Competition at the end of last month. Seven aspiring entrepreneurs took part in the eight-week boot camp to receive support towards launching their business ideas.
“Last year, we started Ignite Portsmouth virtually during the height of the pandemic,” said David Kilroy, KIH Director. “Because we hosted the program in person this year, we could expand the program and bring in new expertise.”
Through multiple hands-on sessions, participants learned how to utilize the business model canvas, advance their skills in marketing their products and services, and received assistance in crafting a business pitch. The boot camp wrapped up its Business Pitch Competition in front of a panel of judges on June 30. Sponsorship from the Tri-State Angel Investment Group and partnerships with TechGROWTH Ohio, SSU, and the ECDI Women’s Business Center of Central Appalachia at SSU, supported the event and provided cash prizes for the top five business pitches. This program was also made possible thanks to support from the Appalachian Regional Commission
In 5th place, winning $350 was Sonya Frey and Mary McFarland, while Trampas Nolan and Trevor Bihl took 4th place and won $400. Candy Frazier took third place and a $500 prize for her business, By Grace Interior Design. Abby Spears placed second winning $1,000 for her idea of social enterprise dedicated to changing the narrative concerning substance abuse in the region. Claiming first place and the grand prize of $2,000 was SSU student Ben Shinkle for his business idea to expand regional metal and wire recycling.
Ben Shinkle took home 1st place at the Second Annual Ignite Portsmouth Pitch Competition. Also pictured is Mike Thompson of the Tri-State Angel Investment Group.
“It was wonderful to continue this program for the second straight year, in person, and see a new group of future entrepreneurs become equipped with the skills they need to succeed,” said Derrick Parker, Entrepreneurship Program Coordinator for the KIH.
The Kricker Innovation Hub is a regional leader in entrepreneurship and innovation whose mission is to help businesses and entrepreneurs grow and bring their ideas to tomorrow’s market.