A Lumby woman’s drive to connect people with organic food has earned her a real boost in business.
Farm Bound, owned and operated by Jaye Coward, took the grand prize at the Community Futures Enterprize Challenge tradeshow and awards event Tuesday at Okanagan College. The top prize collection of business capital and business services is worth over $17,500.
The competition, similar to Dragon’s Den, started with 15 entrepreneurs pitching ideas to a panel of judges. Through the judging process, seven did a final presentation, and on Tuesday the first, second and third place winners were announced.
“The judges had a very difficult job of deciding the winners – all of the finalists made excellent pitches,” said Leigha Horsfield with Community Futures.
Second place went to Diane Kelm who developed an online directory for holistic practitioners. Healing Arts Finder is for practitioners who need affordable, targeted marketing and advertising services. Kelm took home a prize package valued at $8,500.
Matt Parks with Parks Sustainable Design Build was awarded third prize for his business that offers design and construction of high performance, sustainable, and energy efficient new homes and renovations. Parks won a business services package worth over $5,200.
Farm Bound offers customers throughout B.C. organic produce, artisan cheeses and meats, as well as organic, dried and processed goods.
The service has been a hit in places such as Prince George and Fort St. John.
“They’re really grateful for this Okanagan produce that they don’t get up there,” said 32-year-old Coward.
And using local products to attract business from all over the province, proved to be a winning undertaking to the Enterprize judges.
While Farm Bound sprouted to the top of the competition, each of the businesses taking part were given a real boost through the challenge.
“One way or another, I’m doing this,” said Kathleen Colquhoun, who is starting up a driving service called Out ‘n’ About.
The tradeshow highlighted all of the entrepreneurs who participated in the program as well as sponsors and partners.
“They should all be commended for their efforts,” said Dan Rogers, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce general manager.
“The business community has supported this program for that last two years and we are so grateful for the time, expertise and prizes they provide to this business development initiative,” said Horsfield.
The Enterprize Challenge 2016 is presented by VantageOne Credit Union. Other partners include, KPMG, Nixon Wenger, Sproing Creative, The Morning Star, City of Vernon, Okanagan College, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and Sun FM.