Ignite Portsmouth Results

This summer, fifteen local entrepreneurs completed the Ignite Portsmouth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp and Pitch Competition.

Ignite Portsmouth is an 8-week bootcamp that equips participants with the tools they need to succeed. The program teaches value proposition, business model canvasing, market analysis, customer validation, financial and revenue modeling, access to capital, marketing, branding, and business pitching. It also connected them with mentors to help them along the way.

Ignite ends in a pitch competition, which awarded a total of $13,000 to participants looking to start or expand a business. First place went to Audra Popovich, and her idea of the Crafted Coffee Corner. Below are the top five from 2023:

  1. Crafted Coffee Corner - Audra Popovich -$5,000

  2. Mike Mustain Pottery - Mike Mustain - $2,500

  3. Button Butter - Kade Tomlinson - $1,500

  4. Man O’ The Cloth Haberdashery - Tim Palla - $1,000

  5. Hello Hydration - Staci Slaughter and Rebecca Gray - $750

All fifteen entrepreneurs had great ideas ranging from innovative new games, to a food incubator and non-profit dedicated to helping foster youth. All participants will become part of the Ignite Portsmouth Cohort and welcomed back for continued entrepreneurial support, networking, and mentorship.

Kricker Innovation Hub