MICHIGAN GOOD FOOD FUND BUSINESS PITCH EVENT
Our annual pitch event, part of Michigan State University Product Center's Making it in Michigan conference and trade show.
Michigan Good Food Fund's annual Business Pitch Event puts the spotlight on local businesses that help build healthier communities and contribute to a more connected, equitable, and sustainable food economy.
The live pitch event took place on May 6, 2025, and featured three food businesses presenting in front of a live audience and panel of judges. This was the kickoff event for the 2025 MSU Product Center’s Making it in Michigan, a premier food product conference and tradeshow with meet-the-buyers opportunities for local food entrepreneurs.
Meet the 2025 Winners
Meet the incredible food entrepreneurs who presented at the 2025 Michigan Good Food Fund Business Pitch Competition.
These awards are sponsored by Michigan Good Food Fund partners, Lake Trust Credit Union and the Fair Food Network.
Bola Okpue
Wani Cakes in Detroit
First-Place Winner: $5,000
Cynthia Hines
PawPaw’s Pickles in Flint
Second-Place Winner: $3,000
Maritant Peña and Aliz Mendoza
I Love Pig in Flint
Third-Place Winner: $2,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pitch?
A pitch is like a commercial that shares your business plan in 30-90 seconds. Effectively sharing your business pitch is crucial for success! Talking to a buyer, investor, or loan officer requires you to share your business details in a condensed way. Check out our blog on creating the perfect business pitch.
Not sure if you qualify?
Does your business help bring healthy foods to our communities? Are you a women- or people of color-led business? Do you use locally sourced ingredients in your product or use compostable packaging or chemical-free on-farm practices? If you answered yes to most of the questions, we would love to hear your pitch.
What’s the prize?
Three businesses will be chosen for the pitch session on May 6. First prize winner will receive $5,000, second prize winner will receive $3,000, and third prize winner will receive $2,000. Winners will be announced live!
Learn More: Visit the application page for tips and competition rules and guidelines.
Explore Other Services from Michigan Good Food Fund
Flexible Financing
Gain access to flexible, patient loans customized for food and farm businesses of any scale.
Business Resources
Access on-demand resources designed to help you succeed at every stage.
Trainings and Workshops
Expand your expertise with trainings designed specifically for food and farm businesses.
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