Pitch

Meet the Pitch Contestants Making Waves

Kari Smith of Rhythm Ranch Homestead in the Center Street Pitch Competition

Entrepreneurs, prepare to enter the tank! The Center Street Pitch Competition on April 10 at the Ashland Theatre is making a splash with a lineup of fearless business owners ready to dive headfirst into the world of opportunity. These innovators, spread across three categories, are sharpening their pitches and hoping to hook the judges with their brilliant ideas. Let’s meet the contestants who are swimming upstream to claim victory and $35K in cash and prizes!

📍 Center of the Universe Finalists

Ash & Olive is where quality meets community. Located in historic downtown Ashland, their flame-to-table artisanal dishes, curated wine and cocktail program, and welcoming space make locals and visitors feel at home in the Center of the Universe. Ash & Olive is hoping to reel in the judges with a pitch that’s as smooth as their gelato.

Free Jambalaya Studios is mixing art and technology to create an immersive entertainment experience that’s as flavorful as its namesake dish. Their innovative approach to recording music, podcasts, and even theatrical productions turn heads, and their team is banking on their unique blend of culture and creativity to net them the win.

Monique’s Crepes is flipping expectations on what it means to serve authentic, mouthwatering crepes. “My perseverance and dedication to my craft is leading me to my 13 year anniversary of Monique's Crepes in June,” said owner Monique Sage Pecora. “In order to survive as a small business owner, I have had to make many choices with regard to prioritizing business needs. Sometimes I've needed to put some repairs or improvements off for longer than I would've liked in order to keep rolling so to speak!” With a passion for crafting sweet and savory delights, Monique’s Crepes is looking to expand its operations and prove that there’s always room for more deliciousness in the market. Will the judges bite?

🦈 Hanover and Beyond Finalists

Revival Spa is bringing relaxation and rejuvenation to the forefront with its holistic approach to wellness. From therapeutic massages to revitalizing facials, this business is dedicated to helping clients feel their best. “I started six months ago with minimal funding, and without much up-front capital, it's a slow moving, patience-testing process of reinvesting and slowly building,” said owner Lindsey Haberman. “Over time, I am thoroughly committed to developing a unique wellness space for the area. Here's a big thank you to all of the clients making this possible!” With a well-crafted business model and an eye for expansion, Revival Spa is ready to turn the competition into its personal oasis.

Haven House Florals is blossoming into a powerhouse in the floral industry, crafting stunning arrangements that capture the beauty of nature. “I hope to achieve the ability to take our shop on the road and spread kindness, which is our motto at Haven House,” explained owner Dana Kelly. “Our pitch is based on our goal to outfit a truck and trailer to become our mobile flower and plant shop. That would give us the ability to meet and interact with more people in the community and bring our beautiful blooms and plants to them!” With an emphasis on locally sourced flowers and artistic design, this business is hoping its pitch will be as vibrant and memorable as its bouquets.

T.Lo Noticias e Informacion is dedicated to keeping the community informed with timely and accurate news. This Spanish-language media outlet is filling an essential gap in the market, ensuring that important stories reach the right audience. With a strong mission and a growing audience, they’re looking to make headlines in this competition.

🌱 Agriculture & Forestry Finalists

Davis Natives is rooted in the mission of preserving and cultivating native plants. Their work supports biodiversity and sustainability, making them a key player in environmental conservation. “We intend to inspire our neighbors to understand the importance of planting native species and see themselves as ecological changemakers,” said owners Lauren and Brad Davis. “We would like for people to walk away knowing that Davis Natives is their trusted partner in making the shift to native plantings.” With a strong foundation and a growing demand for their offerings, they’re ready to branch out into new opportunities.

Breemar Flower Farm is growing something truly special, bringing fresh-cut flowers to market with a passion for sustainable farming. “I believe in the power of local businesses to bring beauty, sustainability, and connection into our community,” said owner Nicole Dillon. “As a flower farmer and founder of Breemar Flower Farm, I see first-hand how flowers can brighten people’s lives—not just as a luxury, but as a meaningful part of how we mark life’s moments. Flowers are a part of life's biggest moments and it is such an honor to be a part of creating lasting memories in our community.” They’re hoping their pitch will be as bright and bountiful as their blooms.

Rhythm Ranch Homestead is harmonizing agriculture with sustainability, creating a farm that blends tradition with innovation. Their commitment to ethical farming and community engagement sets them apart, and they’re hoping to hit the right note with the judges.

POWER UP Productions is planting seeds of success in story-driven video content that connects audiences to culture, community, and causes. “We applied to the Center Street Pitch Competition because it aligns perfectly with our mission for ‘Field and Fork: Farmer’s Market Journeys,’” said POWER UP Production’s Amy Garelick. “We’re celebrating and elevating the rich agricultural traditions and local food systems of Virginia. We saw this as an opportunity to bring our vision to a larger audience and connect with others who believe in the power of storytelling, sustainability, and community-rooted food experiences.” With a strong vision for the future, they’re determined to turn their pitch into a towering success.

These contestants are ready to put their best fin forward and make a splash in the Center Street Pitch Competition. With their eyes on the prize and their pitches finely tuned, who will swim to the top and secure the investment of a lifetime? Swim over to the Ashland Theatre on April 10 at 6 PM to catch the Center Street Pitch Competition - it’s about to get JAWS-dropping!

From Hoof to Hook: Meadowgate Alpacas Helps Pitch Contestants Make a Splash

Meadowgate Alpacas presenting at the 2024 The Center Street Pitch Competition

The Center Street Pitch Competition is the ultimate proving ground for Ashland’s boldest entrepreneurs, and in 2024, Meadowgate Alpacas swam ahead of the competition, securing first place in the Agriculture & Forestry category. Their pitch wasn’t just a win—it was a wake-up call to the power of innovation in agritourism and sustainable fiber production. Now, as the 2025 competition approaches, a fresh school of contenders is gearing up to dive into the tank, eager to follow in Meadowgate’s hoofprints.

Nicole and Stephen Phillips, the dynamic duo behind Meadowgate Alpacas, entered the competition on a whim—much like a last-minute cannonball into uncharted waters. With just a week before the deadline, they decided to put their business to the test, proving that sometimes the biggest splashes come from the boldest leaps. Their edge? A revolutionary approach to alpaca ownership that prioritized not just fiber and breeding, but also animal disposition.

“When we entered this industry, the overwhelming focus was on fiber, breeding, and showing, and we were even told that ‘nobody cares’ about the disposition of the animal,” Nicole shared. “From the beginning, we knew that we could create a successful model by centering on the idea that disposition is just as important as fiber.”

Their commitment to gentle handling and socialization has paid off—big time. Their alpacas, well-acclimated to human interaction, have become the ultimate brand ambassadors, captivating visitors, attending events, and even participating in therapy programs. Thanks to their 2024 win, Meadowgate secured funding to purchase a climate-controlled van, allowing their alpaca outreach to extend into the warmer months. “Winning effectively restored a third of our market options,” Nicole explained. “We’re now able to expand not only our profitable appearances but also our free therapy program, reaching even more communities.”

But the Phillips family isn’t stopping there. Their next big goal? Launching a Virginia Fiber Pool to repurpose unused fiber from local farms into Virginia Grown socks and shoe insoles—an idea that could completely transform the state’s fiber industry. Their journey proves that sometimes, the biggest catches come from taking a chance and diving in headfirst.

Now, the 2025 Center Street Pitch hopefuls are ready to make their own waves, and Meadowgate is here to help them navigate the waters. With a fin-tastic lineup of competitors across multiple categories, it’s time to meet the next generation of business sharks before the April 10 show at the Ashland Theatre.

Meet the Contestants Ready to Sink or Swim

Center of the Universe Finalists

  • Ash & Olive is serving up a winning recipe where quality meets community. Their flame-to-table artisanal dishes, curated wine and cocktail program, and inviting atmosphere make them a hometown favorite. Can their pitch be as smooth as their gelato?

  • Free Jambalaya Studios is mixing technology and creativity to craft an immersive entertainment experience as rich and layered as its namesake dish. Will their unique approach turn heads and net them a win?

  • Monique’s Crepes is flipping expectations and crafting mouthwatering delights. With nearly 13 years in business, owner Monique Sage Pecora hopes to use the competition to keep rolling forward. Will the judges bite?

Hanover and Beyond Finalists

  • Revival Spa is creating an oasis of relaxation and wellness, proving that self-care is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. Can they turn the competition into their own personal paradise?

  • Haven House Florals is spreading kindness one bouquet at a time. With dreams of a mobile flower and plant shop, they hope to bloom into new opportunities. Will their pitch be as vibrant as their arrangements?

  • T.Lo Noticias e Informacion is keeping the community informed with Spanish-language news coverage that’s timely, accurate, and essential. Will they make headlines in this competition?

Agriculture & Forestry Finalists

  • Davis Natives is deeply rooted in the mission of preserving and cultivating native plants. Owners Lauren and Brad Davis are hoping to branch out and inspire a movement toward sustainable landscaping.

  • Breemar Flower Farm is growing something truly special. With a focus on sustainability, they need a cooler to keep their fresh-cut flowers in top condition year-round. Will their pitch be as bright as their blooms?

  • Rhythm Ranch Homestead is harmonizing agriculture with sustainability. Their commitment to ethical farming and community engagement sets them apart. Can they strike the right chord with the judges?

  • POWER UP Productions is planting seeds of success in video storytelling. Their project, “Field and Fork: Farmer’s Market Journeys,” is a love letter to Virginia’s agricultural roots. Can they cultivate a win?

These entrepreneurs are ready to put their best fin forward and make a splash in the Center Street Pitch Competition. With their eyes on the prize and their pitches sharpened like a shark’s teeth, who will swim to the top and land the investment of a lifetime?

Come watch the drama unfold on April 10th at the Ashland Theatre—because in this tank, only the boldest ideas will survive!

Pitch Competition Finalists Announced

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; Rhythm Ranch Homestead an agritourism farm educating visitors in sustainable living, 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

Agriculture & Forestry finalists Davis Natives, Rhythm Ranch Homestead, Breemar Flower Farm, and Power Up Productions

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.

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.”

Hanover and Beyond finalists Haven House Florals, Revival Spa, T.Lo Noticias e Informacion

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.

Women Building Bridges To Business

Female entrepreneurs will find a powerful ally in Women Building Bridges to Business, a transformative event taking place on March 29 at Ash & Olive from 9 AM to 1 PM. Hosted by the Downtown Ashland Association, this event is designed to educate, inspire, and connect women seeking to elevate their entrepreneurial journeys.

Historically, underserved communities have faced obstacles in accessing capital for business growth. While some barriers are well-documented, others remain elusive. Women Building Bridges to Business aims to bridge this gap by equipping local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the funding landscape successfully. Aligning with the Downtown Ashland Association’s mission to cultivate businesses and empower the local economy, this event seeks to create new opportunities for women in business.

The event will feature a dynamic keynote by Dr. Karen Totten White, a small business consultant and financial literacy expert with over 25 years of experience. Dr. White, a former Assistant Vice President and Managing Officer of a community bank, is the author of The Money Cycle: Your Personal Journey to Financial Independence. She has inspired audiences globally with her insights on leadership, personal financial development, and strategic business growth.

Attendees will also benefit from a marketing expert panel moderated by Lou Keeton, featuring Caroline Sweeney, owner of Minuteman Press of Ashland, Shanisse Palmer, social media strategist and founder of @MommiesJade, and Amy Garelick, founder of POWER UP Productions. Caroline Sweeney expressed her excitement: “Women Building Bridges will be my very first feature in a panel! I'm thrilled to educate the audience on the impacts design, marketing, and print make on growing businesses and communities. I hope to inspire and empower females to go after their dreams, and I'm looking forward to feeling inspired as well as learning from the ladies sharing this space and time.”

Shanisse Palmer echoed the sentiment, stating, “During the Women Building Bridges to Business panel, my goal is to equip women with the motivation and confidence to step into the space, trust themselves, and take action. When you create from a place of passion and enjoyment, consistency comes naturally, and burnout becomes less of a challenge. It’s all about storytelling in a way that feels true to you.”

Women Building Bridges to Business is more than just a workshop—it’s a launchpad for financial empowerment and entrepreneurial success. This program equips women with the tools to separate personal and business finances, build credit, and connect with lenders, setting the stage for long-term success. Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and community support, this event builds bridges that will carry women entrepreneurs toward their fullest potential.

Event Details

  • Date: March 29, 2025

  • Time: 9 AM - 1 PM

  • Location: Ash & Olive, 107 S Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005

  • Itinerary:

    • 9:30 AM - 9:55 AM | Registration and Check-In

    • 10 AM - 10:50 AM | Keynote Speech by Dr. Karen White

    • 11 AM - 11:50 AM | Marketing Panel Discussion

    • 12 PM - Close | Complimentary Lunch by Ash & Olive

Attendees will enjoy a chef-crafted lunch at Ash & Olive, a fine casual dining experience known for its artisanal pizzas, curated wine menu, and welcoming atmosphere.

Secure your seat today and invest in your future!

Pitch Competition Deadline Extended

Entrepreneurs, dreamers, and doers, the clock is still ticking—but you’ve got more time to make your pitch perfect! The Center Street Pitch Competition has extended its application deadline from March 19 to March 21, 2025, at 5 PM, giving aspiring business owners two extra days to apply for their shot at over $35,000 in prizes.

Hosted by the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), the competition is set to take place on April 10, 2025, at the historic Ashland Theatre, offering entrepreneurs across industries the opportunity to present their business ideas and receive the funding, mentorship, and community support they need to succeed.

Why Apply?

This isn’t just a pitch—it’s a launchpad for local businesses. Entrepreneurs will compete for top prizes in three categories:

  • Center of the Universe Business (Ashland Main Street District): First place $10,000, second place $5,000, third place $2,500. The first-place winner also receives a complimentary Downtown Ashland Association membership.

  • Hanover and Beyond Business (Greater Richmond Region): First place $5,000, second place $2,500, third place $1,500. The first-place winner also receives a DEIC membership.

  • Agriculture & Forestry Business (Hanover County & Greater Richmond MSA): First place $5,000, second place $2,500, third place $1,500. The first-place winner also receives a DEIC membership.

Who Can Apply?

Don't hesitate to apply by Friday, March 21. The Center Street Pitch Competition IS for you!

  • You do not need to have an existing business—startups and new ideas are welcome!

  • Businesses located outside of Ashland can still qualify under the Hanover & Beyond or Agriculture & Forestry categories.

  • The competition is not limited to tech startups—retail, restaurants, creative ventures, and service-based businesses are strongly encouraged to apply.

Multiple prizes will be awarded, ensuring that even those who don’t win the top prize still have an opportunity to secure funding. The application process is straightforward, and resources are available to assist applicants in crafting a competitive pitch.

Get Pitch-Perfect with Free Resources

Entrepreneurs can supercharge their applications with free workshops and expert guidance available at AshlandVirginia.com/pitch, including:

Mark Your Calendar!

📅 Application Deadline: March 21, 2025, at 5 PM
📅 Pitch Competition: April 10, 2025, at Ashland Theatre (Doors open at 5:30 PM)

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—apply today and take your business from idea to reality!

➡ Apply now at AshlandVirginia.com/pitch

About Downtown Ashland Association

Downtown Ashland Association is a community non-profit organization that works toward a strong and vibrant future for Ashland, Virginia. Through marketing initiatives, special events, business engagement, historic preservation, and more, Downtown Ashland Association contributes to the town’s vitality by deploying our time, funding, and voice on behalf of the community.

About Dominion Energy Innovation Center
The Dominion Energy Innovation Center supports high-tech entrepreneurs and small business owners who are driving the innovations needed to achieve a net-zero carbon economy.