Bluefield College held its first-ever “Launch Recovery” event, sponsored by the Caudill School of Business which took place at Crossroads Church in Bluefield, West Virginia.
“Launch Recovery is an entrepreneurial pitch competition designed to provide a platform for individuals in the addiction’s recovery community to pitch their business idea and possibly win startup business packages,” said Josh Dye, assistant project manager in the business department at Bluefield College.
First place winner of Launch Recovery went to Laura Scammell who received a total value of $1,400. Her small business was titled “Hounding Mill Grooming.” Scammell is a former vet tech with loads of grooming experience. She is hoping to open up her own grooming shop or a mobile unit. Even though she just started her business over a year ago, Scammell already has a pretty strong client base. As of right now, Scammell performs grooming within her own home or the house of her client.
Second place went to Sandra Duncan whose business was called “Rollin Mana.” Rollin Mana would be a food truck service specializing in pepperoni rolls which fits nicely for West Virginians. Duncan also hopes to provide her services at local events and festivals in the future. Even though her specialty is pepperoni rolls, she plans on adding more dishes to her menu in the future.
Third place went to Kimberly Johnson whose business was called “Kimmie’s Krafts & Grooming.” Just like first-place winner, Scammell, Johnson would like to expand her pet grooming business to a shop or a mobile unit. What makes her different from other groomers is the fact that she custom makes crafts for the pet owners. These items including pet beds, bandanas, and dog treats.
“There is an enormous need in our region to build business skills and hope for those in the community who may not have access to mentors and leaders that can be role models. The goal is not to create the next big million-dollar startup, but to help our community members start small businesses that help them support their families and grow our community,” said David Hite, chair and professor of the Caudill School of Business.
For more information about Launch Recovery, contact Josh Dye via email at [email protected] or by calling 276-326-4233.