‘Pitch It! Brunswick’ puts local entrepreneurs and their business ideas to the test

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. (WWAY) — Four aspiring entrepreneurs put their business ideas to the test as part of a new competition aimed at helping turn their concepts into reality.

Brunswick Community College’s Small Business Center and Marine Federal Credit Union launched “Pitch It! Brunswick,” giving four finalists the opportunity to present their business ideas and compete for prize money.

Tasha Harbin pitched “Danny’s Mobile Auto,” an auto repair service designed to bring repairs directly to customers.

Joley Shankle presented “DragonDuck Studios,” which offers digital and handmade products, including crochet patterns, stickers, plushies and accessories.

Shaquanna Grovner pitched “A Fresh Start,” a telehealth counseling service focused on mental health, substance use treatment and spiritual healing.

Caroline Bailey presented “Coastal Gardens with Caroline,” a business aimed at helping homeowners and businesses make informed landscaping decisions for coastal areas.

Bailey said the competition has helped her develop her idea while focusing on creating landscapes that complement Brunswick County.

“This has been an amazing, amazing journey,” Bailey said. “I think that anyone who is interested in a business or anything entrepreneurial really needs to look into this program. The biggest thing for me is creating beautiful spots in this beautiful place that we live. You know, Brunswick County is a dream.”

Grovner’s “A Fresh Start” took first place, earning a $3,000 prize, a certificate and a spot on WWAY’s “Carolina Beat.”

Bailey’s “Coastal Gardens with Caroline” finished second and received $2,000, while Shankle’s “DragonDuck Studios” took third place and earned $1,000.