Local Entrepreneurs Shine: Arlington’s BizLaunch Announces Pitch Event

March 22, 2024 | By MEDIA CONTACT: Destiny Esper, 703-228-0854, desper@arlingtonva.us

Arlington, Va. — Arlington Economic Development’s (AED) BizLaunch division celebrates the success of local businesses with the announcement of winners from its recent Pitch event. Held at Amazon HQ2 on March 15, the event showcased regional innovation and entrepreneurial spirit while providing businesses a platform to refine their pitches and compete for cash and prizes valued at up to $12,250. 

Organized and hosted by BizLaunch, and sponsored by Wacif, SCORE and Arlington Community Federal Credit Union, the Pitch allowed qualifying businesses to present their ideas to a panel of judges, including Jim Wilmot from Arlington Community Federal Credit Union, Eric Alston from Wacif and Valeria Lopez from the Latino Economic Development Center. Participants vied for one of four cash prizes and/or one of two technology vouchers from Nub8 (valued at $6,750 each). 

Pitches were evaluated and scored against the following criteria: overall storytelling, product/service market readiness, the strength of the business plan, marketing strategy and financials/financial plans. In the end, 12 businesses — all previous BizLaunch Bootcamp participants — gathered to present innovative offerings and solutions to everyday problems. However, five businesses stood out to judges: 

• Victor Wear, presented by Tiffany Hamilton, secured the first-place position, earning $3,000.  
• HealthPub, founded by Arlington-based entrepreneurs Humphrey Moyo and Ruben Pillay, secured second place and a prize of $1,500, showcasing dedication to innovative healthcare solutions for the local community. 
• Mane Rhodes Soap and Wellness, presented by Rylinda Michelle Rhodes, claimed third place, receiving $500 and a Nub8 Technology consulting voucher. 
• Live Wellness Group, led by Laman Ben-Trahoret and based in Arlington, secured fourth place, earning $500. 
• Heart Hugs, represented by Jessi Browne White, was awarded a website/e-commerce package from Nub8. 

Funds distributed as prizes were raised through BizLaunch Bootcamp attendee participation fees, ranging from $99 to $199, and supplemented by a generous $1,000 contribution from SCORE, totaling $5,500. 

BizLaunch remains committed to nurturing and supporting small, local businesses in Arlington, providing resources and opportunities needed for success. Events like these continue to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, solidifying Arlington’s position as a hub of dynamic economic activity.