Hello and welcome to TVFCU’s 9th Annual Idea Leap Grant Pitch Competition! We’re so glad you could join us.
Tonight, we will award $75,000 to local small businesses to support their growth, strengthen their community impact, and contribute to our local economy. As a non-profit financial cooperative, TVFCU takes pride in giving back and helping our communities thrive.
You’re in for a special treat this evening! Below is a schedule of events:
4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Please register at the front table to receive complimentary drink tickets and enjoy catering from Party Bites, a finalist in last year’s Idea Leap Grant competition. Take this opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals.
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Hear from this year’s finalists as they present their business ideas. Judges will evaluate presentations based on:
Learn more about each business below.
7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy a performance by local comedian Scott Bedgood while the judges deliberate (see bio below).
Following deliberation, we will announce the winners:
Winners will be broadcast live on Channel 12, so don’t hold back your applause!
Chef Express, is a full‑service culinary business offering food truck operations, catering, and a campus restaurant located on UTC’s West Campus (515 Vine Street). Chef Express bridges high‑quality food service across three modes — restaurant, mobile, and catering — while maintaining strong local roots and a mission of community enrichment. Their food truck and UTC Restaurant consist of American Cuisine food options such as smash burgers, Wings, and Philly’s, while their catering company offers a variety of options from soul food, Italian, BBQ, and more.
Mindy B’s Deli has been serving sandwiches with a side of snark for 14 years. They are a quick-serve deli offering sandwiches, salads, sides, soups, and desserts, with the majority of their items being made in-house. Guests can dine in, carry out, order online, or enjoy our catering services.
Shaq’s Mobile Detailing, established in 2019, has grown into a trusted and professional provider of high-quality detailing services. These services are designed with convenience in mind as they strive to provide personalized results at competitive prices. They are recognized as one of the top mobile detailing providers in Tennessee and serve a loyal client base across several states.
Windy City Eatz is a small, locally owned food truck and restaurant based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, proudly serving authentic Chicago-style comfort food with a Southern twist. As a growing small business, there mission is to provide high-quality, freshly prepared meals while creating meaningful connections within their community.
Since opening in 2020, Yellow Racket Records has become a mainstay for Chattanooga record collectors and music lovers. Located on Main Street, the shop boasts an inventory of 13,000+ records, ranging from vintage titles in jazz, soul, country, and classic rock to brand new releases in pop, hip hop, and alternative.
Scott entertains audiences with his self-deprecation, stories from his trials and tribulations as a father of two young boys, and his deep, deep love of rap music. When he’s not onstage he’s an author, journalist, and speaker coach.
If you’re considering applying for the 10th Annual Competition or would like to stay informed about other TVFCU initiatives, be sure to follow us on social media. You can also stay up to date on application openings by subscribing to our newsletter.
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