A group of aspiring entrepreneurs was recently awarded over $30,000 by Rising Star Capital of Jersey City at the finale of its Start Something Challenge.
The Community Business Academy holds the Start Something Challenge and provides an opportunity for graduates of the Academy to use their entrepreneurial skills, technology ability, and outreach to the community to grow their businesses.
The Challenge lasts for one week, during which contestants promote their businesses. There are five categories—expression, community, sustainability, health, and food—and through the competition website the community is able to vote on their business of choice. The final five from each category then pitch their businesses to a panel of judges.
Overall first place winner was Alexandra Sartoga for her business, Garden Steaks. Garden Steaks has been running as a catering service since 2014, and Sartoga, a professional chef, will use the $10,000 she received to find a permanent home for Garden Steaks in The Junction neighborhood of Jersey City. This includes a plan to sell fresh food at prices that are affordable.
Those who placed first in each of the five categories received $5,000 and runners-up took $250. Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver gave a keynote address at the event.
Organizers of this type of event often use poster printing to draw attention to new businesses and their early accomplishments.
