The 2024 Naturally Chicago Pitch Slam Competition
Ana Bora | June 21, 2024
Design Resource Center recently attended Pitch Slam 2024, an annual financing and innovation forum hosted by Naturally Chicago at the Epiphany Center for the Arts in Chicago, IL. This event featured expert panels, a keynote speech by John Foraker, CEO of Once Upon a Farm, and a competition where 10 entrepreneurs vied for a prize package valued at $200,000. The finalists were split into two categories: Emerging Brands with revenue of $1 million or less, and Established Brands with revenue between $1 million and $4 million.
Naturally Chicago Managing Director Jim Slama thanking event participants.
THE INNOVATION MYTH AND VALUE-ORIENTED SHOPPER
One prominent theme that emerged from the panel discussions was the idea that "innovation is dead" is merely a myth. Creating a new brand requires an ecosystem that starts with the consumer. The value-oriented shopper plays a crucial role in driving brands that are aligned with health trends, plant-based alternatives, and sustainability practices such as upcycling and local sourcing. Brands built on mission-based materials and ingredients can drive innovation and attract consumer support.
THE RESULTS ARE IN: PITCH SLAM WINNERS
Following the competition, two companies emerged as the winners: Yobee Care in the Emerging Brands category and Evergreen in the Established Brands category.
Image Source: Yobee Care Instagram @yobeecareofficial.
Yobee Care, the winner in the Emerging Brands category, is disrupting the $15 billion health and beauty industry with its product designed to address dry skin and itchy scalp conditions. Founded by Ruchi Gupta, a Professor of Pediatrics, Yobee Care offers organic and effective products suitable for individuals of all ages, from babies to the elderly.
Evergreen, the winner in the Established Brands category, impressed the judges with its differentiation in the frozen breakfast category. The company's product, a nutritious, vegetable and protein-packed frozen waffle that can be prepared in just 30 seconds, was designed to make mornings with kids easier. Launched in March 2020, Evergreen aims to become a leader in its category in the upcoming year.
In addition to the competition, the event featured a refreshing cocktail reception sponsored by Twisted Alchemy and food samples provided by sponsors including FILLO’S, Farmer’s Fridge, and AQUA Cultured Foods. Congratulations to the Pitch Slam winners and all 10 finalists for their remarkable presentations and innovative products. Learn more about other great participants in the Naturally Chicago Pitch Slam Competition by clicking the links provided below.
Established Brands: Lil Gourmets, TiNDLE, Windy City Mushroom, Yishi Foods.
Emerging Brands: Arch, Daybird, Mez Foods, Unbothered Foods.
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