Eight talented women entrepreneurs from across Florida are set to compete in the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Orlando's 2025 PropelHER Pitch Competition, highlighting the innovative spirit of women-led businesses in the state. The competition, featuring finalists from NextGen, Emerging, and Established categories, will take place during the Take Flight Women's Business Conference on May 15, 2025, at Seminole State College.
The diverse group of finalists represents groundbreaking ventures addressing critical needs in technology, healthcare, arts, and youth development. Participants will vie for cash prizes and over $18,000 in business services, including legal support, marketing, and promotional packages.
NextGen finalists include Line Cherrelus with Hair Hub, a mobile app designed to empower Black women with affordable hair care resources, and Elaina Dixon's Blossoming to Broadway, a program utilizing drama therapy to support children's social-emotional growth. Emerging category finalists feature innovative solutions like Janell Borrero's MoneyPOP, an AI-powered financial coaching platform for beauty entrepreneurs, and Daisy Parks' Wellside Health, a telehealth service targeting residential and commercial communities.
The Established category showcases mature businesses like Julie Kostic's JK Creative, a design agency providing affordable branding services, and Cristina Duncan's Leaders in Training, a youth development program combining leadership training and community service.
Beyond the pitch competition, the conference offers networking opportunities, expert panels on marketing and funding, and keynote speakers. According to Karen Kurta, Chair of the PropelHER Committee, the event is more than a competition—it's a platform for women transforming industries and creating meaningful change.
NAWBO Orlando's commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs is evident in this initiative. Deanna Novak, Judging Coordinator, emphasized that the finalists represent the innovation and resilience driving Florida's entrepreneurial ecosystem forward.
The PropelHER Pitch Competition underscores the growing impact of women-led businesses and provides critical support for entrepreneurs at various stages of their professional journeys. By offering resources, visibility, and community, NAWBO Orlando continues to champion women's economic empowerment and entrepreneurial success.
