Envision Greater Fond du Lac hosted their first ever Envision THIS! Pitch Event on November 13, 2023. This event was compromised of two events: one specifically for high school students and one for adults, 18+.

The high school competition showcased innovative ideas from three local high schools. Laconia High School’s Elsie Rens and Julia Pierstorff secured first place with their “Make Up Your Mind Mirror.” Their invention streamlines outfit selection for women aged 15-30, leveraging technology to simplify morning routines. They received a $500 prize for first place. Brody Nolan, Lucas Zimmerman, and Hunter Cochran from Campbellsport High School clinched second place with “Wings over Elmore,” focusing on raising pheasants and tailoring their business to diverse markets. Their idea earned a $250 prize. In total, the competition had 7 different high school groups pitch, with representation from Campbellsport, Laconia and North Fond du Lac high schools. Special thanks to judges Kean O’Brien, Lisa McArthur, Becca Schumacher, and TJ Schoenborn for their time and commitment to youth entrepreneurship in Fond du Lac County.

In the evening pitch event, six local entrepreneurs each had four minutes to pitch their business. Arianna McCormick-Wilson’s “AMW Arts LLC” clinched the top spot, advocating for art’s value through engaging classes and personalized 2D art commissions. Her focus on seniors and retirees, alongside plans for virtual lessons, aims to broaden the market and bridge existing gaps in art education for adults, emphasizing personal connections and breaking barriers to entry. Connor Freimuth’s “NEW Compost,” the second-place winner, stands out for its commitment to sustainable plant cultivation, utilizing eco-friendly methodologies rooted in Dr. Elaine Ingham’s Soil Food Web School. In its early stages, the business targets diverse customer bases, from household plant owners to large-scale agriculture, prioritizing soil health and striving to create a more eco-conscious future by expanding partnerships and promoting the significance of soil ecosystems. Special thanks to evening judges, Kean O’Brien, Nolan Boyce, Rhonda Roehrig, and Kathy Schlieve for their thoughtful feedback and timely deliberation.

Top winners are invited to advance to the NEW Launch Alliance Pitch Event on Thursday, November 30, where they will compete for additional funding for their business ideas and broad investor attention.