October 23, 2025
Hamilton County’s small business stars took center stage at the second annual Pitch & Empower event on Tuesday, October 22, 2025, at Memorial Hall in Cincinnati.
Hosted by the Hamilton County Office of Small Business, the free public event celebrated the innovation, resilience, and economic impact of local entrepreneurs. Eight finalists pitched their ideas before a live audience and a panel of judges for a chance to receive grant funding to help grow and strengthen their businesses. Audience members also participated by voting for their favorite entrepreneur to receive the “Fan Favorite” award.
2025 Awardees
- First Place ($5,000) and Audience Vote ($1,000): Just Q’in BBQ – presented by Matthew Cuff
- Second Place ($3,000): Lusheous Collection – presented by Renika Smiley
- Third Place ($1,000): Honey Child Pops – presented by Sarah Thompson
Additionally, the following small businesses took the stage:
- Cincy Postpartum – Amanda Laskowski
- Cream + Sugar Coffeehouse – Simone Cocks
- Pawpin’ Pawz Luxury Mobile Grooming – Zakayla Riley
- San Jeanetta’s Table – Tiffany Brown
- Team B Architecture & Design – John Stoughton
Each participant received professional pitch coaching in preparation for the event, gaining valuable tools and connections to help their businesses continue to grow.
The 2025 Pitch & Empower panel of judges included:
- Robert Bell, Director of Economic & Community Support, Hamilton County
- Steve Love, President & CEO, SRL Consulting, Inc.
- Shelia Mixon, President & CEO, The SASH Effect LLC
- Barb Smith, President, Journey Steel
- Donna Zaring, Executive Director, Flywheel
Attendees celebrated the creativity, courage, and collaboration on display throughout the evening — a true reflection of Hamilton County’s thriving small business community. Check out the short highlight video below for a look back at the energy, excitement, and inspiration from this year’s Pitch & Empower event.
