2024 winner Meadowgate Alpacas receiving their Center Street Pitch Competition prize.
The friendliest Shark Tank in the Center of the Universe is back for its 11th year! On April 10, 2025, the Dominion Energy Innovation Center and Downtown Ashland Association will once again throw open the doors of the historic Ashland Theatre for the Center Street Pitch Competition, where bold entrepreneurs will dive into the opportunity to reel in a share of $35,000 in cash and prizes.
“Innovation isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about having the courage to bring it to life,” said Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller. “The Center Street Pitch Competition is about giving passionate entrepreneurs the chance to turn their visions into reality.”
Center Street Pitch Competition Maggie Beal Longest, Heather Lyne, Dr. Berina Yerkic-Husejnovic, Rachel Shupe, and Tammy Proffit
This year’s panel of seasoned judges brings a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for fostering innovation. Heather Lyne, an award-winning community and economic development leader, has spearheaded transformative projects in Virginia, Colorado, and beyond. A proponent of asset-based community development, she champions the philosophy of building on "what’s strong" rather than "what’s wrong." Dr. Berina Yerkic-Husejnovic, a distinguished professor at Randolph-Macon College and a seasoned industry expert, holds multiple degrees in engineering, business, and foreign languages, along with 35 patents and extensive leadership experience in corporate project management. They are joined by Maggie Beal Longest, Deputy Secretary of Commerce & Trade for the Virginia Office of the Governor; Rachel Shupe, Senior Relationship Manager and Intern Coordinator at Colonial Farm Credit; and Tammy Profitt, a dedicated small business advocate. Together, these accomplished professionals will evaluate each pitch and provide invaluable feedback to the finalists.
The competition spans three categories, each featuring a trio of ambitious business leaders ready to make waves:
Center of the Universe finalists Monique’s Crepes , Ash & Olive, and Free Jambalaya Studios
Center of the Universe: Local Talent, Global Ambitions
This category shines a light on the best and brightest of Ashland’s business community. Ash & Olive offers a flame-to-table dining experience that blends artisanal quality with small-town hospitality; Free Jambalaya Studios is a powerhouse of artistic innovation, producing music, theater, and multimedia content; and Monique’s Crepes delivers a taste of France from a mobile kitchen, bringing sweet and savory delights to public and private events alike.
Agriculture & Forestry: Planting the Seeds of Success
Rooted in innovation, this category highlights entrepreneurs cultivating change in agriculture and forestry. Finalists include Davis Natives, a company committed to preserving Virginia’s indigenous plant genetics to enhance ecosystem resilience; Breemar Flower Farm, a micro-farm specializing in sustainable, high-quality cut flowers; and Power Up Productions, a creative media company dedicated to telling the stories of Virginia’s farming and culinary communities.
Hanover and Beyond: Expanding the Horizon
With the potential to impact communities far and wide, these finalists are proving that big ideas know no boundaries. Haven House Florals fosters community connection through floral arrangements and gifts that spread kindness; Revival Spa reimagines wellness spaces with an emphasis on accessibility and holistic care; and T.Lo Noticias e Informacion provides vital resources to Latino families across the U.S., breaking language barriers and opening doors to opportunity.
Agriculture & Forestry finalists Davis Natives, Breemar Flower Farm, and Power Up Productions
Hanover and Beyond finalists Haven House Florals, Revival Spa, T.Lo Noticias e Informacion
For many of these entrepreneurs, the competition represents more than just financial support—it’s a stepping stone toward making a lasting impact. Nicole Dillon, founder of Breemar Flower Farm, sees it as a way to shift how people think about flowers. “80% of flowers are imported, which means that during major holidays like Valentine’s Day, local options are scarce,” she explains. “With funding, I can build a walk-in cooler and a hydroponic growing space, ensuring fresh, locally grown flowers are available nearly year-round.”
For Lindsey of Revival Spa, the opportunity is about more than business—it’s about reshaping how people approach self-care. “I want to create a space where everyone feels truly welcome, no matter their background or abilities,” she shares. “Winning this competition would allow me to expand services and make wellness more accessible for all.”
Beyond the funding and prestige, the Center Street Pitch Competition is a celebration of ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Whether they sink or swim, every finalist is taking a bold step forward—and the community is invited to witness it all unfold.
Join us at Ashland Theatre on April 10 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM to cheer on these rising stars, meet the judges, and see firsthand who will reel in the ultimate prize. One thing is certain—these entrepreneurs aren’t afraid to test the waters.
