B.E.T.A Pitch Competition
Hey Candle Cousins! I know it’s been a minute and I have missed connecting with you all. A little over a month ago, I participated in my first pitch competition in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Many of you may or may not know, but I’ve been in a business cohort since April of this year and I must say this is by far one of the biggest challenges I’ve had in a while! I came up with a pitch deck and prepared a 3-minute presentation on why I think my business deserves $10,000!
I’d worked extremely hard and even had some microphone issues during my presentation! Preparing before hand, I would say, had to be the most difficult part. Knowing my numbers and putting them on paper had to have been the most nerve wracking part for me. However, I made it through and prepared myself to the best of my ability. I did not win the extra cash but I was still able to receive a portion of grant money to assist me in continuing to leverage my business. For that I am grateful.
During my time in the cohort overall, I have had to learn a lot of new things about business. I know now that their is so much more to running a business than just creating the product or service. I know now that what makes a good business is the curator knowing the ins and outs of the business. What makes a good business, is opening up to other folks about where you are currently and having a strategic plan on how you’re going to eventually climb the later. I know now what makes a good business and a strong brand is longevity. With so much work to do, I’m thankful for time. I am thankful to those who support me in building generational wealth for me and my family through my love for the candle industry.
My goal is to continue pitching for my small business. I have appreciated the vendor opportunities this year but I must admit, not too much has come from it this year. I would like to continue doing vendor events but with intention. It will be in I Am The Vibe’s best interest to visit larger vendor expos. I Am The Vibe will start doing vendor expos outside of Indianapolis in 2024. Next year, it is my goal to get down to Atlanta and participate in Invest Fest! Maybe I can even find a pitch competition to do while I’m out there too.
