On August 8th, 2024, we hosted our Pitch Black Student Pitch Competition and Young Black Entrepreneur Market at the BMO Tower in Chicago. It was an unforgettable evening that brought together the passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of young Black and Brown changemakers. This event wasn’t just about competition — it was about celebrating the next generation of business leaders who are using their talents to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
At the heart of the event was our signature pitch competition, where high school students, ages 14-18, stood before an expert panel of judges to present their innovative business ideas. From the moment they took the stage, it was clear that these young entrepreneurs were ready to disrupt the status quo. Competing for over $20,000 in seed funding and pro bono business resources, they demonstrated not only the depth of their ideas but also their commitment to driving social change.
Our judges included Nicole McCarthy, Jeff Osuji, Chris Rudd, Dr. Pamela Randle, Chidima Okorie and Tytannie Harris, LCSW. They provided valuable feedback to help these young entrepreneurs elevate their businesses. The energy in the room was contagious as our budding entrepreneurs shared their visions, showing us all what’s possible when youth are empowered to dream big.
Running alongside the pitch competition was our Young Black Entrepreneur Market, featuring graduates from our Hustle Hacks program. These young entrepreneurs, ages 18-24, spent the past 8 weeks honing their business skills through virtual cohorts and mentorship from industry experts. The market was their moment to shine, showcasing products and services they’ve worked hard to develop.
It was a powerful experience to see these young “sidepreneurs” connect with customers, expand their networks, and gain real-world business experience. One of our talented Hustle Hacks students, Serenity Jackson, even designed the event graphics, proving that the future of business is in great hands.
Celebrating the Pitch Black Winners
The night culminated in announcing the winners of the pitch competition. We are so proud of these five outstanding entrepreneurs:
Elijah Casselle, 16 – WE GOT SHOEZ Elijah’s online shoe store refurbishes used sneakers to like-new condition, combining affordability with sustainability. Awarded $7,500 in seed funding and pro bono services.
Dereon Pyles, 17 – OPERATION YOUNG SANTA Dereon’s nonprofit provides essential care packages for the unhoused, embodying his deep commitment to community service. Awarded $5,000 in seed funding and pro bono services.
Kyrah Ousley, 17 – CHANEL THE STYLIST Kyrah’s hair business specializes in braids, empowering her to expand her reach on the South Side of Chicago. Awarded $3,000 in seed funding and pro bono services.
Sofia Smith, 18 – SCS SWIM With her eco-friendly swimsuit brand, Sofia promotes both diversity and ocean conservation. Awarded $750 in a business micro-grant.
Endea Johnson, 17 – HAZARDOUS APPAREL Endea’s bold streetwear brand pushes the boundaries of fashion, capturing the spirit of innovation. Awarded $750 in a business micro-grant.
"Gray Matter disrupts historically limiting educational paradigms to envision a radically different way forward, becoming a catalyst that connects young Black people to entrepreneurial education and experiences that ignite their unrealized possibilities and potential," said Kenya Merritt, Chicago’s Deputy Mayor of Business and Neighborhood Development.
The resources awarded to these young entrepreneurs will allow them to take their businesses to new heights. Along with seed funding, they received pro bono services, including business consulting, financial advice, branding support, and UX/UI design, ensuring they have the tools to bring their visions to life.
Looking Forward to the Future
Pitch Black 2024 wasn’t just about competition — it was about sparking innovation, building networks, and creating opportunities for the next generation of business leaders. These young entrepreneurs have the talent and vision to change the world, and we at The Gray Matter Experience are committed to supporting them every step of the way. Together, we’re shaping the future of business, one idea at a time.
Learn more about our programs www.graymatterexperience.com/programs
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