Pitch Southern WV Idea and Business Competition Held in Beckley
The Hive held its first “Pitch Southern WV Idea and Business Competition” on September 18 in partnership with TechConnect West Virginia and WVU LaunchLab – Beckley. Six entrepreneurs presented their ideas to an audience and judges at the Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre in downtown Beckley.
First place winner David Wills of Step Safely won $2,200 to advance his innovation, which is designed to enhance ladder safety by signaling when a person is on the last step.
The second-place prize of $1,000 was awarded to Mike Jude with Kustom Doors, who is developing a six-panel door with hidden compartments for safely storing valuables.
The third-place award was presented to Kris Payne of Screen Saver, who plans to use the $500 to launch a new business that will offer computer and electronic repair in Wyoming County.
“We want to thank all of those who helped make this event a success, including TechConnectWV, Mr. Bee Potato Chips, United Bank, McDonald’s, and Pottery Place,” said Judy Moore, Director of the WV Hive.
Additional competitions will be conducted across the WV Hive 12-county service area. Follow the WV Hive on Facebook for dates and locations of future events, as well as information on how to pitch your idea.