CARBONDALE, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Carbondale Accelerator Program, a collaborative effort between the Illinois Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University (SIU) and the City of Carbondale Government, recently concluded with a Grand Pitch Competition on May 8. This event marked the culmination of a two-year initiative aimed at supporting Carbondale-based entrepreneurs and new businesses.
Eighteen businesses participated in the competition, delivering 90-second pitches to a panel of three judges. The competition awarded first place to Taste & Live, Local Lore Farm, and Candray Institute. Second place went to Quick Magic Gardens, Reading by the Weeks, and Honey Heist Mead Co.
"We'd like to congratulate the following First & Second Place winners of the Grand Pitch Competition," said a representative with the SIU Small Business Development Center. Organizers also expressed gratitude to all participants, judges, and the City of Carbondale for their support throughout the program.
The program has significantly impacted the Carbondale community by fostering business growth and sustainability. Organizers look forward to future collaborations to continue supporting local entrepreneurs.
