Recap of the 2024 PowerUP! Business Plan Competition

Pace Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is thrilled to celebrate the success of its clients at the 21st annual PowerUP! Business Plan Competition, hosted by the Brooklyn Public Library. This year, over $40,000 in cash and prizes were awarded to local entrepreneurs, providing vital resources to help bring their innovative business ideas to life.

Pace SBDC advisors worked closely with each client, offering personalized guidance on crafting compelling business narratives, developing financial projections, and preparing for their pitches. These efforts were instrumental in helping several clients achieve remarkable results.

Dr. Mason Mason, founder of Noir Yoga, won the $20,000 First Place Award for his Brooklyn-based yoga studio that fosters community through mindful movement, with support from Pace SBDC business advisor, Susan Gluck.

George Kong, founder of May King Innovations, secured the $10,000 Second Place Award for his ULI Cards, designed to aid non-English-speaking patients by improving communication with medical staff, enhancing dignity and medical outcomes, thanks to guidance from business advisor Joe Peterson.

The $1,000 Audience Choice Award went to Steeven Nelson, creator of Outside with Recess Village, a nonprofit providing inclusive outdoor experiences for Black and Brown adventurers, with strategic guidance from business advisor, Rawle Brown.

Additionally, Tia-Marie Hewitt, founder of Stepping Stone Studios, was awarded $1,000 for her co-working artist space catering to fashion designers and podcasters, developed in collaboration with business advisor, Pedro Soto.

Congratulations to all the winners and their advisors for these incredible achievements! If you’re looking to turn your startup into a business or need assistance for your existing business, contact Pace SBDC for free, personalized business advisory services here.