From hand-baked spuds to artisan wares and even RV rentals, Enterprize Challenge finalists are providing a wide range of offerings.
“The quality of the Enterprize presentations is always high and this year has been no exception,” said Leigha Horsfield, executive director, Community Futures North Okanagan. “I don’t envy the job of the judges.”
Community Futures North Okanagan, which hosts the annual Enterprize Challenge, has announced the next five of 10 finalists competing to share nearly $35,000 in prizes so participants can take their business ideas to the next level.
Horsefield said twenty-three contestants — the most ever — entered this year’s challenge.
“I think that tells us entrepreneurship is alive and well in this region. The spirit and intention of entrepreneurship is healthy here. That’s what that tells us,” she said.
After weeks of preparation and pitching, the judges announced their first five of 10 finalists March 22. Here are the names and business descriptions of the next five:
- Jeff McSweeney, Happy Little Camper Rentals: What better way to enjoy the outdoors and quality family time than on a camping trip sans tent?! Get off the ground and get out there with Happy Little Camper Rentals’ range of self-tow RV’s and camper vans.
- Martin Paris, Jolly Good Spudz: Forget French fries, Jolly Good Spudz cooks up baked potatoes topped with an exciting array of healthy fillings to give you a new and nourishing handmade snack alternative.
- Mathieu Jubinville, HBAV Production Group: When you’ve got great sound and a great picture, everything’s better. HBAV Production Group provides professional audio-visual services to create custom, long-term solutions that meet clients’ needs.
- Juanita Miller, Balanced Botanical: As a certified nutritionist and health educator, Juanita is passionate about helping women improve their health and feel beautiful. Working out of downtown Vernon’s Mustard Seed Clinic, Juanita offers a range of popular services, including nutrition coaching, skin analysis, wellness education and retreats, and even grocery store tours.
- Pam Taylor, The Pink Spotted Goat: The Pink Spotted Goat is a storefront that gives people the chance to buy home and gift items handcrafted by local artisans and makers. With a select line of sustainability-inspired products, PSG helps families reduce waste and contribute to local charities.
Candidates now await the announcement of the top three winners at the 2017 Enterprize Challenge Tradeshow and Awards event being held at Okanagan College April 13.
The public is encouraged to attend this free event that begins at 4 p.m. with the awards starting at 5 p.m.