MintoBelinda Wick-Graham, Director of Economic and Community Development for the Town of Minto (far left), stands with the winner of the 2025 PitchIt! Minto Business Competition, Feel Alive Home Junction, founded by Palmerston’s own Jennifer Ferreira-Rudinac (centre) and her family. Minto Mayor Dave Turton was also in attendance (far right). (Photo provided by The Town of Minto)
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Winner of annual PitchIt! Minto Business Competition announced

The winner of the 13th annual PitchIt! Minto Business Competition has been revealed.

A media release from the Town of Minto shares that this year's winner is Feel Alive Home Junction, founded by Palmerston’s own Jennifer Ferreira-Rudinac.

First launched back in 2012 by the Town of Minto and the LaunchIt Business Exploration Centre, the PitchIt! competition aims to "foster entrepreneurship, support local business growth, and promote the wealth of resources available in Minto," according to the media release.

Since its inception, the competition has grown and become a fixture in the local business community. This year saw five entries with three finalists competing for over $19,200 in cash and prizes.

All the finalists received customized prizes thanks to local sponsors.

"Participating in PitchIt! helped me re-evaluate and refine my original business idea. The training I received gave me practical tools and a clearer vision for the future. It’s been a real game-changer," said Jennifer Ferreira-Rudinac. "To any entrepreneur considering it—I say go for it. You never know where it might lead."

The PitchIt! Minto Business Competition returns each spring. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this unique opportunity to build, refine, and grow their business ideas.

"We’re fortunate to have such a dedicated network of local businesses and organizations that rally behind PitchIt! each year," added Belinda Wick-Graham, Director of Economic and Community Development in Minto. "Each of the finalists brought forward inspiring business concepts and a clear vision for success."

For more information, contact Wick-Graham at belinda@town.minto.on.ca or by phone at 519-338-2511 ext. 241.

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