Meriden – Ronald Harris, owner and founder of Traffic Advertising Network, received a $5,000 cash prize in a business pitch contest on Wednesday.
Harris was the first place winner in the first-ever startup business pitch competition at Il Monticello. The event gave local entrepreneurs and startups a chance to sell their ideas to an enthusiastic audience and win cash prizes.
Using some visual aids, Harris wowed the judges with a presentation on his new mobile billboard business, which positions a client’s product or service for optimal performance on target highways.
“We had to do a presentation on short notice and remember an entire presentation,” Harris said after the incident. “But I didn’t want to apologize and I pushed myself too hard. I had prepared beforehand. Unfortunately, I made some mistakes, but the audience still liked it. I was very proud of myself when I won.”
Harris, who is also a board member of the Meriden Children’s First Initiative, was particularly pleased to have her children attend.
“It gave me an opportunity to prove to my kids that you can do anything you put your mind to.” They said. “I would like to congratulate our fellow winners and all participating companies on winning this pitch competition.”
The event was a collaboration between the Midstate Chamber of Commerce, the Meriden Economic Development Corp. and the city of Meriden. It was primarily funded by a grant from CTnext.
Five companies competed for cash prizes and bragging rights. Tamara Ketchian, owner and founder of Wildwood Granola, took second place with $3,000. ObsElite Performance owner Giorgio Favia, Jr. received $1,000 for third place.
The organizers expressed their joy at the vote and said they would hold another contest if they could get the money.
“All entrepreneurs have done a great job,” said Rosanne Ford, president of the Midstate Chamber of Commerce. “This is another example of the important collaboration between the Midstate Chamber of Commerce, Medco and the Meriden City Department of Economic Development. The pitches were interesting and inspiring and the passion of all pitchers and their respective companies was evident. We believe the pitch competition is national. The race was there and we want to repeat it.”
Harris offered some advice.
“Work hard and have fun,” Harris said. “You like to do that. It’s up to you, talk about it and smile.”
Reporter Mary Ellen Godin can be contacted at [email protected]
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