Young Innovators Wow Judges, Win Seed Money During Inaugural Pitch ‘N Punch Event

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Aug. 1, 2023) — The Venture Center and Economics Arkansas, with the support of the Museum of Discovery and the Innovation Hub, successfully hosted the first-ever Pitch n’ Punch event on July 27 in downtown Little Rock. Held at the Museum of Discovery, this innovative competition demonstrated that age is no barrier to entrepreneurship, providing a platform for 5th to 8th-grade students to learn the fundamentals of pitching and entrepreneurship. Raeghan Coleman clinched the first-place title, with Madelyn Lawson and Ava Johannes securing the second and third spots, respectively. 

In a fun atmosphere that fostered creativity and innovation, the young participants presented various ideas, including natural skincare solutions, innovative products, snow cone stands, and a fascinating concept of waterproofing hearing aids. The winning pitches were chosen for their unique blend of originality and feasibility, and $2,650 in seed money was given away to participants – everyone was a winner. 

Mimi San Pedro, Chief Strategy Officer at The Venture Center, said, “These young innovators fearlessly shared fresh ideas, embodying the true essence of entrepreneurship. Their courage and creativity inspire us all to push boundaries and think beyond the conventional. Remember, you’re never too young or too old to think big.”

The Pitch n’ Punch event, similar to The Venture Center’s adult pitching competition, Pitch ‘N Pint, aims to stimulate creativity and innovation among Arkansass’ youth. To prepare for the competition, all participants attended two pitch preparation sessions facilitated by the Innovation Hub. This collaboration underscores the Venture Center’s commitment to fostering future innovators and Economics Arkansas’ dedication to equipping students with vital economic knowledge and skills.

To learn more about Pitch ‘N Punch and The Venture Center, please visit www.venturecenter.co.

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About The Venture Center
The Venture Center is a globally recognized Arkansas-based Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO) that helps entrepreneurs turn their start-ups into viable, high-growth businesses. By leveraging the expertise of a world-class team of mentors, intensive programming, and introductions to the investor community, The Venture Center serves as an engine for economic growth in Arkansas and beyond.  Learn more at www.venturecenter.co. Follow The Venture Center on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter(@VentureCenter), and Instagram.