Fourth Fridays Kicks off the Summer!

Ashland Dance Academy performing at Ashland Fourth Fridays in the Ashland Town Hall Pavillion

The beloved Ashland Fourth Fridays series returns in 2025, bringing live music, local art, and vibrant community spirit to the Center of the Universe. Held on the fourth Friday of each month from May through August, this event invites visitors to shop, dine, and dance under the stars while enjoying free concerts, artisan vendors, and farm-to-table cuisine in historic downtown Ashland.

Each month, Ashland Fourth Fridays will feature a diverse lineup of live performances at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, highlighting some of Virginia’s most exciting musical acts in the Center of the Universe:

  • May 23, 2025 – The Generations Trio
    Kickstarting the summer with smooth jazz and timeless classics, The Generations Trio blends rich melodies and swinging grooves, performing favorites from icons like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock alongside fresh takes on classic rock hits.

  • June 27, 2025 – Life Support
    With funky harmonies and an eclectic mix of instruments, Life Support reinvents acoustic rock with the cajón, electric ukulele, and acoustic bass, delivering an energetic and engaging sound.

  • July 25, 2025 – The Blue Guitar
    This dynamic group covers rock, jazz, R&B, and pop, combining instrumental arrangements with powerful vocals for an unforgettable performance.

  • August 22, 2025 – Vexine
    Closing out the summer with their signature "southern rock noir," Vexine’s powerhouse vocals and bold instrumentation will electrify the crowd. This final Fourth Friday will also announce the winner of the Ashland Song Contest, unveiling an original song inspired by the town itself.

Vend at Ashland Fourth Fridays

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Beyond the music, Ashland Fourth Fridays offer an immersive experience, including extended shopping hours at downtown boutiques, an artist marketplace, and delicious eats from local restaurants. The Ashland Dance Academy will once again energize the crowd with special performances, while thrill-seekers can enjoy interactive entertainment like escape games from RED VEIN Escape and eerie storytelling with Ashland Haunted History Tours.

Artists, artisans, and food vendors are encouraged to apply to be part of this celebration of creativity and community. Vendor spaces are carefully curated to highlight the region’s vast talent, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for attendees. Interested vendors should apply exclusively through the Downtown Ashland Association.

Ashland Song Contest

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For those eager to leave their mark on Ashland’s musical legacy, the Ashland Song Contest is now accepting entries. Songwriters of all levels are invited to compose an original tune celebrating Ashland, with the winning piece earning a professional recording session, a live debut at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration, streaming on all major platforms, and a played on the K101.2 POP.

From handcrafted art to delicious cuisine, from jazz melodies to rock anthems, Ashland Fourth Fridays are the perfect way to experience the town’s creative and cultural energy. Whether discovering a new favorite band, savoring a gourmet dish, or finding the perfect locally made treasure, visitors are sure to be enchanted by this unique summer event.

For more information, including vendor applications and song contest submissions, visit AshlandFourthFridays.com and follow the Downtown Ashland Association on social media. Don’t miss the chance to discover, dine, and delight at Ashland Fourth Fridays—where music, art, and community shine under the summer sky.

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!

April Events in Downtown Ashland

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ASHLAND TRAIN DAY

The ultimate railroad celebration is back for its 21st year! Join us in historic downtown Ashland on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM for a day filled with:
✨ Touchable trucks
🛍 Shopping & dining
🕺 Live art
🚂 Kiddie trains
🚊 Model trains
🚆 And, of course, REAL trains rolling through the heart of the action!

Sponsored by Amtrak & CSX, this is a can't-miss event for train lovers of all ages! Who’s hopping on board? 🚉👇

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APRIL HAPPENINGS

🌸 April - Revival Spa Spring Specials

Spring into self-care! Enjoy 10% off an hour-long massage or indulge in a Botanical Facial with a full-body CBD treatment. 🌿 Booking is easy—just select "Spring Specials" at RevivalSpas.com.

🧶 April - Dogwood Fiber Trail

Get tangled up in fun at Center of the Yarniverse, part of the Dogwood Fiber Trail! 🌳 Discover a curated selection of yarns, fibers, tools, and exclusive patterns—plus, enjoy special giveaways! 🏆 Learn more.

📖 April Mondays - Mother Goose Storytime

It’s rhyme time! 🦢 Designed for ages 6 to 24 months and their caregivers, this nursery rhyme-filled program includes singing and reading. Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

📚 April Tuesdays - Ashland Branch Library

A double dose of fun! Bring your toddler at 10:30 AM for books & music, then stick around for preschool story time at 11:30 AM! 📖 🎶 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🤠 April 1, 6:15 PM - Line Dancing

Kick up your boots with the Boot Scooters at Ashland Branch Library! No experience needed—just bring your two left feet! 👢 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🎨 April 1-3 - Art Display & Sculpture Workshop with Jocelyn Russell

The sculptor behind "Secretariat Racing Into History" is hosting a three-day workshop at Hanover Arts & Activities Center. Follow her on Facebook for details.

⛏️ April 3 -17 - A Minecraft Movie

A new kind of block-buster is hitting the big screen! 🎥 Craft a great night out at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

🍕 April 4 - Pizza Night at the Caboose

Pull up for pizza right along the railroad! Plan to dine early - pizza often sells out! Learn more.

🖼️ April 4 -5 - Ashland Artists Showcase and Marketplace

Join Ashland’s favorite artists this spring! This is your chance to see and purchase your next great piece for your home or business. Learn more.

🏃‍♂️ April 5, 9 AM - Hanover Airpark 5K

The race kicks off with a Mascot Dash at 8:50 AM, followed by an official "POP" to start the 5K! 🎉 Cheer from the Fan Zone or register here.

🎭 April 7, 7 PM - Hanover’s Got Talent Auditions

Think you've got what it takes? ⭐ Audition at Hanover Arts & Activities Center for a chance to perform at Ashland Theatre! Sign up.

🏛️ April 8, 6 PM - Historical Tax Credit Consultation

Preserving history just got easier! 🏡 Learn how historical tax credits can help with renovations at Ashland Town Hall.

🩸 April 9, 10 AM - Blood Drive

Be a lifesaver! ❤️ Donate blood at Hanover County Courthouse. Schedule an appointment.

🎭 April 10, 5 PM - Theater Night in Ashland

Dine out & support local theater! 🍽️ Participating restaurants will donate to Liberty Middle School’s production of Beauty and the Beast, Jr.! 🕰️ Learn more.

🎞️ April 12, 10 AM - Toddler Takeover

Little ones take over Ashland Theatre for a special one-hour screening with lights on and concessions available! 🍿 Learn more.

☕ April 12, 3 PM - Tea Party

Pinkies up! ☕ Enjoy a sweet & savory tea party at Homemades by Suzanne in historic downtown Ashland. Call (804) 798-8331 to reserve your seat!

🍷 April 13, 3 PM, Spring PMS Party

Paint, Massage, and Sips spell fun at XtraSuite Salon Studios! Sip seasonal wine while you learn to paint a Cherry Blossom Serenade, then kick back in a massage chair and admire your beautiful work. 🎨 Learn more.

🎬 April 14, 7 PM - The Heiress

Catch this classic 1949 film starring Olivia de Havilland & Montgomery Clift at Ashland Theatre—just $5 a ticket! 🎟️ Learn more.

📚 April 15, 7 PM - D. Randall Blythe: In Conversation

Author & musician D. Randall Blythe discusses his new book, Just Beyond the Light. 🎸📖 Presented with Fountain Bookstore at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

📚 April 16, 7 PM -Alumni Book Club

Professor Emeritus Dr. Alphine Jefferson discusses Percival Everett’s award-winning novel, James. The novel is a retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. Register to attend.

🎭 April 16-19 - "Love of Labyrinths" (World Premiere!)

A hilarious fantasy adventure with dragons, elves, wizards, & rogues—plus a persnickety rulebook! 🎲 Don’t miss Randolph Macon College’s mellifluously musical new play! Learn more.

🎀 April 19, 11 AM - Berkleytown Heritage Park Ribbon Cutting Celebration

Join the Town of Ashland and Hanover County Black Heritage Society for special remarks, community performances, food, reminiscing, and a neighborly stroll through the trail. Enjoy parking at Ashland Elementary School.

🚀 April 19, 11 AM - More than Science

NASA Solar System Ambassador Kenneth Feldt explores the emotional impact of space travel and our place in the universe. 🌌 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🎤 April 19, 7 PM - Hanover’s Got Talent SHOW

The top 3 acts take the stage at Ashland Theatre for a chance to shine! 🌟 Learn more.

🦋 April 23, 3:30 PM - Kid’s Butterfly Program

Flutter over to Ashland Branch Library for a butterfly talk & craft with Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. 🌿 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.🎸

🎃 April 26, 7 PM - The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Shadow Cast

It’s halfway to Halloween! Get your tickets to the Rocky Horror Picture Show with a shadow cast and enjoy specialty cocktails, goodie bags, & movie madness at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

🧠 April 28, 12 PM - Keeping Your Brain Active

Stay sharp! 🧩 This brain health presentation will help you keep your mind in top shape. Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

⚰️ April & Beyond - Manning Memorial Services CareCredit

Cover memorial costs with CareCredit, now available at Manning Memorial Services. Apply here.

CENTER STEET PITCH COMPETITION

The Center Street Pitch Competition is the friendliest version of "Shark Tank" in the Center of the Universe! Cheer on local innovators on April 10 from 6-8 PM in the historic Ashland Theatre and find out who is swims away with the $35K prize.

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ENTERPRISE EXPRESS

📅 April 7 – Ashland Community Leadership Academy
Ready to make a difference in Ashland? This six-week program, running Mondays through May 12, is designed to engage and empower community members who live, work, or volunteer in town. Spots are limited—apply today!

☕️ April 8 - Coffee and Connect
Start your day with caffeine-infused small business networking and collaboration at Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Rich roasts are generously provided by Hanover’s own Rivers Edge Coffee Co. Learn more.

💻 April 21 – Deadline for the Digital Skills, Literacy, and Device (DSLD) Program
This initiative supports programs that enhance digital skills, literacy, device access, and tech support in the community. Whether you're looking to launch or expand a program, apply now to make an impact!

RUNAWAY RAFFLES

🚆 Two Amtrak Tickets 🌎 Enter our raffle for your chance to win TWO Amtrak tickets to anywhere along the East Coast! Whether you're dreaming of a scenic getaway, a city escape, or a coastal retreat, crack open a can of Center of the Universe Brewski and climb on board! Your ticket to ride is just a lucky draw away.Enter before April 25! 🚉💨

🎅 Santa Train Tickets 🚂
Enter for a chance to win 6 tickets to the December 2025 Ashland Santa Train sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys! Tickets include a round-trip excursion to 'Colonial Williamsburg' complete with entertainment and cocoa with Santa and his friends. Enter before October 2025. ❄️🎄

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GOOD NEIGHBORS

Free events like Ashland Train Day are only possible thanks to YOUR support. Help us continue to plan free family-friendly fun and build a vibrant future in Downtown Ashland when you make a tax-deductible donation.

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Train Day Pack Big Volunteer Perks

Every year, Ashland Train Day’s locomotive celebration brings thousands of visitors from around the world to the Center of the Universe. But behind every whistle and wave, there’s a team of over 100 dedicated volunteers keeping things chugging along. Saturday, April 26, is your chance to hop on board!

Volunteering at Ashland Train Day isn’t just about lending a hand—it’s about hoping a board community spirt. Whether you’re handing out maps, supporting artists and entrepreneurs, or making sure every guest has a smooth ride through the festivities, your efforts help create the magic that makes Train Day unforgettable. Plus, volunteering with Downtown Ashland Association, a Main Street America-accredited nonprofit, means your hours count toward community service. You’ll even receive a digital, printable service sheet to turn in, complete with a signature from the friendly volunteer coordinator at headquarters.

And speaking of headquarters, there’s a first-class stop just for you! The Dominion Energy Innovation Center, normally home to entrepreneurs shaping a net-zero future (and the Downtown Ashland Association’s offices), transforms into Volunteer Headquarters for the day, thanks to the generous support of Wawa and Jersey Mike’s. Need a pick-me-up before your shift? Ashland’s Wawa, stationed at 100 N. Washington Hwy, will keep volunteers and first responders fueled with coffee, water, and breakfast treats. Swing by their booth on Robinson Street for snacks, smiles, and a high-five from Wally Goose himself. By lunchtime, Ashland’s own Jersey Mike’s (708 England Street) will be stacking Volunteer Headquarters with fresh subs to keep you rolling.

Of course, no great journey is complete without a few delicious detours! Volunteers can enjoy tokens for treats from some of Ashland’s finest eateries and food trucks. Whether you’re craving a homemade sandwich from the beloved Homemades by Suzanne, watching the artistry of Monique’s Crêpes as she crafts delicate French delights, or indulging in the legendary flavors of Strawberry Street Catering, there’s something for every palate. Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn, Hungry Hungry Arrow’s frybread and Indian tacos, and more will keep the energy high as you make your way through the festival.

Beyond the food and fun, Train Day volunteers receive a special token of appreciation—a limited-edition Ashland Train Day shirt, designed by Geoff Stone and printed by Minuteman Press of Ashland. These coveted cotton tees are only available online, making volunteering your best ticket to scoring one of these exclusive designs.

Community groups are also getting on board in a big way! ARC of Hanover will be bringing their Thrift Store from Glen Allen to their booth on Robinson Street, advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. St. Ann’s Knights of Columbus will be working hard behind the scenes to keep Ashland spotless—ensuring our beloved festival is as clean as a freshly polished Amtrak train car. And New Community Church is stepping up in a big way, with over 60 volunteers keeping the Kid Zone on track with bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting, games, and family-friendly fun in the Ashland Branch Library parking lot on 201 S Railroad Ave.

Supporting our first responders is more important than ever. While the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad recovers from the fire that displaced them in February, Ashland’s CareNow Urgent Care is stepping in to provide world-class First Aid support—and a bit of fun—at the Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Meanwhile, Ashland’s Police Department will be working tirelessly to keep Train Day safe and welcoming for all. Want to show your appreciation? You can support the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad by signing up for their meal train and helping provide a warm meal or comfort item during their time of need.

Ready to jump on board? Sign up today to be part of the action at AshlandTrainDay.com. Whether you’re handing out prizes, assisting visitors, or just bringing your best enthusiasm, there’s a role for everyone. And if you live or work along the event route, don’t forget to set out your County Waste trash and recycling bins a day early—it’s a simple way to show your community spirit and keep Ashland looking its best for over 20,000 attendees.

So, what do you say? Let’s keep Ashland Train Day running full steam ahead—one volunteer at a time!

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.