The first ever Innovate and CoBuilders Pitch Day happened last week, and WLBT and reporter Roslyn Anderson delivered a fantastic story.
CoBuilders is Mississippi’s first statewide startup program that connects small businesses and start-ups to resources and support across the state. Through a series of pitch events hosted by regional partners, 21 startups were identified and invited to participate in the first cohort, a 12-week intensive program designed to escalate their growth and opportunity for success.
Fourteen companies were chosen and provided the funding and mentorship on what it takes to be “Investor-Ready.” On July 28th that group of inspiring entrepreneurs delivered their pitches and then answered questions about their services and products during a Q&A with interested investors. Companies have the potential to receive $150,000.00-$200,000.00 if investors like their ideas.
“We aim to be an all-in-one hub for personalized care,” Sajani Barot told a crowd Thursday at Fertile Ground Beer Company in Jackson.
Sajani Barot and Sarah Malouf, founders of The Skin Consultant, pitched their Ridgeland dermatology and aesthetic company on stage to a group of investors. “We hope to get funding one to hire out team of people to help us with marketing with business development, sales, complete the build of our software, and yes to have some retail space as well,” said Barot.
JJ Townsend was there representing Microsoft and TechSpark. “They receive mentor support and a few other resources to help them get off the ground, and this is the pilot for it, so we are excited to see where this program goes after the second and third year as well.”
LeJeune Johnson of Therapy Plus pitched to investors on for her teletherapy company located in Ridgeland. “We’re dedicated to providing therapeutic services, and wellness services to the children and families of Mississippi. We primarily serve the Jackson metro area,” said Johnson. “The exposure, the ability to build connections is priceless. So I’m already walking away a winner.”
We thank WLBT for the great coverage and congratulate all the businesses that participated in making the first Pitch Day a success. We look forward to many more to come as we watch our state grow.
For more information on CoBuilders and the opportunities within the state, please visit CoBuilders.ms.
