ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Aberdeen Development Corporation and Northern Innovation & Startup Center are thrilled to announce the winner of the Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition, held yesterday, July 29, at the Engels Event Center.

Tiffany Hoeft of Minds Matter PLLC won the $10,000 grand prize. Minds Matter PLLC, an innovative mental health service provider, impressed the judges with their pitch, showcasing their commitment to improving mental health support in the community. More information about their services can be found on their website: mindsmatter.life.

Recognizing the exceptional quality of all the finalists, the Aberdeen Development Corporation awarded $1,000 each to the other three finalists: Grace Kramer of eqUTI, Sarah Rice of Ascend Aviation Detailing, and Zamani Peters of DetailerShopApp. Their remarkable efforts and innovative business ideas reflect the entrepreneurial spirit that the competition aims to foster.

The event began with the Startup Center Community Champions networking event, followed by the evening program where the finalists presented their pitches. As the judges deliberated, attendees continued to network, culminating in the announcement of the winner.

About the Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition:

The Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition is designed to propel businesses toward their next phase of development. Whether launching a storefront, securing funding, or filing a patent, this event provides invaluable support to emerging businesses.

“Last night was an incredible evening celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of our community,” said Bea Smith, director of the Northern Innovation & Startup Center. “Hearing from our finalists about the incredible things they are working on was truly inspiring. The turnout was amazing, with people really showing up to celebrate the innovation happening in Aberdeen.”

The competition seeks to inspire and support entrepreneurial ventures, refine business ideas, and facilitate access to vital resources such as investment and financing.

“Last evening marked the culmination of years of work to launch the inaugural Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition,” said Mike Bockorny, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corporation. “The event provided a platform for innovative ideas, showcased a high number of quality applicants, and played a crucial role in fostering local business growth. We are already looking forward to next year and expect the annual competition to grow for many years to come!”

For more information, please visit northernstartupcenter.com.