The Chattanooga business development group Launch has picked its winners from last week's 3rd annual Startup Showdown where 10 entrepreneurs from the Launch Business Entrepreneurship Academy pitched their business ideas to a panel of judges.
First place and a prize of $2,500 went to Pat Rowe, owner and operator of BBQ Rowe, a barbecue catering company that serves ribs, pulled pork, turkey legs, and rotisserie chicken.
The second place prize of $1,500 went to Chris Patty, owner of Testimony Printworks in Rossville, Ga. The company can put a logo on just about anything and produces custom banners, drink ware, t-shirts and other promotional products.
In third place, and awarded $1,000, was Meg Brasel with her company TrailDrops, an outdoor nutrition company providing lightweight trail meals to hikers. They provide meals for both short and long trips that can be delivered at home, or even on the trail.
In addition, an audience vote for favorite business was held and the People's Choice Award went to Tara Viland of Arrival Events, which helps coordinate those who wish to celebrate the memory of those who have died, regardless of spiritual or religious beliefs.
Launch was founded in 2011 with the mission of empowering communities and individuals through entrepreneurship. The group provides training, coaching, access to business and capital resources and is focused on women-owned and minority-owned micro businesses.