Left to right: Elaine Young (Judge), Samantha Moore (Finalist - Sweeter Side Bakery), Mayor Dave Turton, Lior Sabach-Stewart (Winner – Two Pines Herbals), Noah Andriessen, (Sponsor, Libro Credit Union). (Photo courtesy of Town of Minto)
Midwestern

Minto businesses earn support through pitch contest

A natural wellness clinic claimed the 11th annual PitchIt Minto Business Plan Competition.

Two Pines Herbals won the 2023 competition aimed to grow small businesses in Minto and increase awareness of resources available.

Owner Lior Sabach-Stewart said she’s looking to begin offering herbal remedies and reiki sessions to the area in September.

“Being a part of the competition and being a finalist, I had to dive deep into the what, how and how much of my business. The competition gave me the opportunity to figure this all out. I was lucky to have all the resources offered in the area including Launchit Business Exploration Centre, Saugeen Economic Development Corporation and the Business Centre of Guelph Wellington that I could tap into, and it played a huge roll in helping me to write my business plan and figure out my operations and plans for the future,” said Sabach-Stewart.

The two finalists were Palmerston businesses Sweeter Side Bakery owned by Samantha Moore and Strengthening Connections Counselling Group owned by Katrina Krieck and Linda Gray.

“We are always impressed with the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the participants in the PitchIt Program, all should be commended for taking the plunge and participating,” said Director of Economic and Community Development, Belinda Wick-Graham.

Over $18,000 in cash and prizes were awarded to the three finalists.

The winners were announced at the July 11 council meeting.

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