AUSTIN, Texas — November 1st, 2017 — The new Austin Fast Start pitch competition for small businesses premiered on Thursday, October 26 at the Housing Authority of the City of Austin. The competition accepted applications from Austin-based small businesses in the area of consumer packaged goods, and four finalists were selected to present in front of an audience who voted for their favorite pitch. The finalists included Rogue Pet Feed, Curcuma, O’JOY, and Elite Sweets. After strong pitches from each owner, the audience selected Curcuma as the winner of a $2,000 cash prize, plus in-kind services valued at $5,000+.

 

“Going through Austin Fast Start has been an incredible experience,” Rachel Musquiz, owner of Curcuma, says. “Preparing for the pitch helped me perfect the way I  talk about my business, especially when it comes to sharing my story and vision for growth. The questions from the panel and audience also provided me with helpful perspectives, and I will consider these points as I move into the next stage of my business.”

 

Musquiz plans to use the cash and in-kind services to update product packaging, increase distribution at local grocers, and conduct product testing for extending shelf life.

Austin Fast Start is a partnership between the City of Austin Small Business Program and the Austin Young Chamber.  The quarterly program is a 90-minute fast pitch competition designed for traditional start-up businesses that are less than six months old. The public is invited and encouraged to attend this fun way to engage with and support emerging small businesses.

The City of Austin Small Business Program offers resources for small business expansion year-round. From business coaching to loan opportunities, the Small Business program supports the growth of new and existing business in Austin. Learn more at www.SmallBizAustin.org.

 

Austin Fast Start Pitch Competition 2018 Schedule:

• March 2018 – Educational Tech
• June 2018 – Fashion
• September 2018 – BioTech/MedTech

 

About Austin Young Chamber

The Austin Young Chamber connects and empowers Austin’s young professionals to create individual, business and community success. In this competitive workforce, Austin Young Chamber members come together to connect, grow and thrive. In our ever-changing community, our civic engagement and advocacy efforts ensure Austin is the best possible place for all young professionals to live, work and play. Connect with the Austin Young Chamber on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, or check out upcoming programs at austinyc.org.

 

Media Contact

Alyssia Woods

Executive Director, Austin Young Chamber
alyssia@austinyoungchamber.org
(512) 810-8005