ABERDEEN, S.D. (Press Release)
Excitement is building as the Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition today announced the five finalists selected to present their innovative business ideas at the upcoming 2025 event. This competition is hosted by the Northern Innovation and Startup Center and the Aberdeen Development Corporation. This year’s competition saw a remarkable turnout, with 32 applications submitted from entrepreneurs across Aberdeen and the wider region.
The high caliber of submissions presented a challenging task for the Round 1 judges. After careful deliberation, five standout entrepreneurs have been chosen to advance to the final round, where they will pitch their concepts live at a community event set for June 30. The winner of the competition will be awarded a $10,000 cash prize, sponsored by the Aberdeen Development Corporation.
Bea Smith, Director of the Innovation & Startup Center, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s participants. “Last year’s Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition was a huge success, but this year truly surpassed all expectations with 32 applications submitted from Aberdeen and across the region,” Smith said. “The caliber of ideas and entrepreneurs was so strong that our judges felt the top five all deserved the opportunity to pitch — and we couldn’t agree more. It’s an exciting time for innovation in our region.”
Smith added, “The Aberdeen Business Pitch Event is one of our favorite nights of the year — it’s a true celebration of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship in Northeast South Dakota. It’s an exciting opportunity to hear about the incredible ideas people are bringing to life right here in our region, and to cheer them on as a community.”
“For the second year in a row, the Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition is shining a spotlight on the remarkable talent and entrepreneurial energy in our region. With so many strong and compelling entries, I know it was a tough decision for the judges, but these five finalists truly reflect the innovation, ambition, and community spirit we’re proud to support. We look forward to seeing their ideas grow and make a lasting impact,” said Tim Hanigan, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corporation.
The five finalists who will compete in the final pitch event are (in alphabetical order by last name):
- Robin Niewenhuis with FRODO.
- Shaun McNeely with Mattress Medic Mobile.
- Jonah Schmidt with TopDown Drone Service.
- Samantha St. Clair with Sunrise Greens, LLC.
- Samantha Wipf with Optimal Performance.
Organizers extend their sincere gratitude to the dedicated Round 1 judges for their time and expertise in reviewing the numerous applications:
- Paul Forst, Agtegra Cooperative
- Mark Gederos, RhodesAnderson Insurance
- Kristie Martin, Dacotah Bank
- Laure Swanson, Governor’s Office of Economic Development
- Katie Washnok, Blackout Industries
- Kelly Weaver, Small Business Development Center
The Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition aims to foster entrepreneurship and support new ventures in the region. The final event will take place on Monday, June 30, starting at 4 p.m. with networking followed by the Finalist’s Pitches at Engel’s Event Company. The community is encouraged to attend this free event and support these aspiring entrepreneurs. Further details can be found at https://www.northernstartupcenter.com/upcoming-events/finalist-event.
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