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Pitch. Compete. Win $10,000.
YOBIZMO Pitch Competition
YOBIZMO’s Pitch Competition is a culminating event for entrepreneurs who have completed our business training program. Selected finalists present their businesses live to judges for a chance to win $20,000 in total funding. The competition showcases real businesses, real preparation, and real opportunity.
About the Pitch Competition
The YOBIZMO Pitch Competition is an annual event that brings together prepared entrepreneurs to present their businesses to a panel of judges. Finalists pitch live for a chance to win $20,000 in total prize funding to support their business growth.
Participants are selected based on readiness, preparation, and participation in YOBIZMO’s business training programs. Leading up to the event, finalists receive mentorship and pitch preparation to help them clearly communicate their business ideas and goals.
The Pitch Competition is both a celebration of progress and an opportunity to recognize entrepreneurs who are building sustainable businesses within our community.
HOW PARTICIPANTS GET THERE
The Pitch Competition is a live event where prepared entrepreneurs bring their business ideas to life, pitching in front of a panel of judges and a supportive audience.
Here’s how it works:
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Preparation & Training: Participants complete YOBIZMO’s business training, where they develop their business model, refine their ideas, and prepare for pitching.
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Finalist Selection: Entrepreneurs are selected as finalists based on readiness, participation, and progress demonstrated throughout the training process.
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The Pitch: Each finalist is given a set amount of time to present their business, share their story, and explain their vision for growth.
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The Judges: A panel of local business leaders and industry experts evaluate each pitch and provide constructive feedback.
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The Prizes
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Grand Prize: $10,000
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Total Awards & Giveaways: $20,000 supporting multiple finalists
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The Pitch Competition is a day of inspiration, connection, and celebration—bringing together entrepreneurs, community partners, and supporters to spotlight entrepreneurship in action and recognize the work behind each business.
2025 Pitch Competition Winners
The 2025 YOBIZMO Pitch Competition awarded funding to entrepreneurs who demonstrated readiness, clarity, and vision through months of preparation and mentorship. These winners represent the impact of structured training and community-supported entrepreneurship.
2024 growth Small Business Winners
During our first Pitch Competition in 2024, YOBIZMO awarded six entrepreneurs across Small Business Growth and Start-Up Small Business categories. This expanded recognition reflected our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs at different stages of their business journey.
Jannie Vang
Jaspirations LLC
1st Place - Growth Small Business
Jannie Vang founded Jaspirations. Her entrepreneurial journey is fueled by a deep love...
Diane Tran
Gaginang Greetings
2nd Place - Growth Small Business
Diane Tran is CEO of Gaginang Greetings, an enterprise bridging Teochew, Vietnamese, and...
Mai Jessica Xiong
Warman Muay Thai
3rd Place - Growth Small Business
Mai Jessica Xiong is a dedicated entrepreneur who is passionate about empowering...
2024 Start-up Small Business Winners
During our first Pitch Competition in 2024, YOBIZMO awarded six entrepreneurs across Small Business Growth and Start-Up Small Business categories. This expanded recognition reflected our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs at different stages of their business journey.
Ia Xiong
Hmong Rising
1st Place - Start-Up Small Business
Ia Xiong is a psychologist who specializes in multicultural issues and trauma-informed care...
Nakita Vang
Heal in Heels
2nd Place - Start-Up Small Business
Nakita Vang is a multi-creative powerhouse dedicated to healing and empowerment...
INA by Kalina
INA by Kalina
3rd Place - Start-Up Small Business
I am a plus-size creative dedicated to promoting body positivity, self-empowerment...
Why the Pitch Competition Matters
The YOBIZMO Pitch Competition is more than a single event or prize—it is part of a larger ecosystem designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.
Many entrepreneurs face barriers beyond having a good idea, including access to capital, mentorship, and opportunities to be seen and heard. This competition exists to help bridge that gap by recognizing preparation, progress, and potential—not just outcomes.
In its early years, YOBIZMO intentionally expanded recognition to honor entrepreneurs at different stages of growth. By supporting both established small businesses and early-stage startups, the Pitch Competition reflects our commitment to meeting entrepreneurs where they are and helping them move forward with confidence, resources, and community support.
Stay Connected with YOBIZMO
Interested in future Pitch Competitions, business training opportunities, or entrepreneur resources? Join our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming programs, events, and ways to get involved.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONFERENCE SPONSOR:
