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Pitch Black 2025: Investing in the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs


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We recently hosted our annual Pitch Black Student Competition at mHub. The competition brought together Chicago’s brightest young innovators, supporters, and leaders for an evening that highlighted what’s possible when youth have the resources, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed.


Celebrating the Winners

These young founders walked away with seed funding and also with unwavering support to build, grow, and transform their communities.

  • 1st Place: Hadassah, Founder of BabelBridge – $7,500 in seed funding. A travel app connecting tourists with real-time translators for authentic, cross-cultural communication.

  • 2nd Place: David, Founder of V3rsatile – $5,000 in seed funding. A clothing brand redefining creative expression, mental health and community.

  • 3rd Place: Nataly & Jada, Founders of Blossoming Sweets – $3,000 in seed funding. A mission-driven bakery where every dessert supports a unique social cause.

  • People’s Choice Award: Maia, Founder of Fostering Each Other – $750 in seed funding. A community and mentorship platform for adoptees.

  • Virtual Pitch Winner: Alonzo, Founder of ProfitMania – $750 in seed funding. A self-care brand offering handcrafted shea butters and body oils designed to heal, nourish, and empower.


Together, these students received over $20,000 in funding and wraparound business support to scale their ideas.



Why Support Youth Entrepreneurs—Especially in Chicago?

Chicago’s youth are brimming with potential, but face significant economic barriers. Consider the data:


In 2023, the jobless rate among Chicago’s 16- to 19-year-olds was staggering, with over 78% for Black youth, and similarly high levels for Latino (74.2%) and White (73.8%) teens, well above national averages.


Youth entrepreneurship programs increase long-term employability and financial independence. A study from NFTE found that young people who participate in entrepreneurship programs are 50% more likely to start their own businesses and more likely to pursue college or advanced training.


When we invest in young innovators now, we’re not only sparking creativity; we’re directly influencing economic mobility and community wealth-building.

Studies show that young entrepreneurs are more likely to:

  • Create jobs and strengthen local economies

  • Introduce fresh, innovative ideas into stagnant industries

  • Lead with purpose, often embedding social impact into their business models



Wraparound Support: Beyond the Stage

Winning Pitch Black means more than funding. It means sustained support to bring these ventures to life. This year’s winners will also receive:

  • UX + Website Development from Jay Fox

  • Branding + Design from SMP Creative Design

  • Business Banking Setup to establish financial foundations

  • Co-Working Access at TechNexus to collaborate and grow

  • Mentorship, coaching, and internships through TGME’s ecosystem

This support ensures that their ideas don’t stop at the stage; they grow into sustainable ventures.


Thank You to the Ecosystem

Pitch Black wouldn’t be possible without the judges, sponsors, and partners who dedicate their time and resources to help our students grow:


What’s Next?

The journey continues. Applications for our IDEATE x ACTIVATE Program are now open. If you know a high school student with bold ideas and the drive to lead, encourage them to apply.


Want to be part of this movement? Whether by donating, mentoring, or sponsoring, your support helps us expand opportunities for the leaders of tomorrow.


Learn more about our programs www.graymatterexperience.com/programs 



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