The 2025 PITCH Competition once again highlighted the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship thriving at Berry College. Sponsored by the Center for Student Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Development (C-SEED), the PITCH is a "Shark Tank"-style event where Berry students present their business ideas and compete for funding to help launch or grow their ventures. Whether working individually or as part of a team, participants gain critical experience in advancing an idea toward reality—an essential part of Berry's commitment to preparing students for lives of service and success.
The competition challenges students to think critically about whether their ideas create real value for others and if they offer economic, commercial, or social opportunities for the community.
This year, students competed in two categories: Start-up Division and Scalable Division. Winners were selected by an experienced panel of judges:
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Jerry Wooten, CEO and founder of Homtex, an industry leader in luxury bed linens and a broad range of textile-related businesses
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JJ Johnson, a multi-unit franchise owner with StretchLab studios in Atlanta and a Smoothie King in Rome, Georgia, bringing extensive leadership and operational experience
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Carrie Murakami (10C), national manager of inside sales at Miura America and vice president of the executive board for the YMCA of Rome and Floyd County, with expertise in sales management and strategic growth
2025 winners
Start-up Division
- First Place - Emma Harrison | $5,000 Bettyann O'Neill Innovation Fund
Emma Harrison founded Emma's Plate, a food content brand focused on creating approachable, innovative, and nostalgic recipes. She plans to use her funding to invest in professional camera and lighting equipment, baking tools, and props to enhance her content. Future goals include monetizing her website, launching a newsletter, and publishing a cookbook. - Second Place - Andrew Purcell | $2,500 Chairman's Prize for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Andrew Purcell created Color Berry, a student-designed coloring book showcasing iconic Berry College landmarks. He plans to release a second edition, expand to other universities, and build an online sales platform. - Third Place - Joey Fletcher | $1,500 Entrepreneurial Seed Fund
Joey Fletcher operates Ghostlight Visuals, a full-service videography business for events and companies. His prize will be used to upgrade video equipment, acquire editing software, purchase insurance, and strengthen his online presence. - Fourth Place - Noah Campbell | $1,500 Entrepreneurial Seed Fund
Noah Campbell is the founder of Printifications, a business creating toys, keychains, organizers, and decorative items using 3D printing. He plans to expand production capabilities by acquiring additional 3D printers and diversifying product offerings. - Fifth Place - Alana Azeta | $1,000 Entrepreneurial Seed Fund
Alana Azeta is developing Height'nd, a clothing brand offering stylish, well-fitting apparel for tall women. With her prize money, she will begin conversations with manufacturers and build an online presence to establish a customer base.
Scalable Division
- First Place - Nate Pedigo | $10,000 Henry and Clara Ford Fund for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Nate Pedigo is the co-founder of SoVest, a social media application where users interested in the stock market can share predictions and analysis. Pedigo's team will use the funding to secure intellectual property protections and prepare the platform for investor partnerships and user growth. - Second Place - Dylan Sears | $5,000 Entrepreneurial Seed Fund and $1,000 Ninja Fund Best Idea
Dylan Sears is CEO of Stay EZ, a property management system for short-term rental businesses. His team will complete the second iteration of the platform, incorporating feedback from initial users to enhance functionality and readiness for full-scale launch. - Third Place - Addofo El Bey | $2,500 Entrepreneurial Seed Fund
Addofo El Bey founded A.B.C. Studios, a barbershop initially serving Berry students and eventually expanding into the broader Rome community. His next steps include obtaining a Barber 2 license and securing a downtown location.
