Monday night, the Growth Plan Pitch Event, sponsored by Citizens Bank, brought together a room full of energy, excitement, and entrepreneurial spirit. Five dynamic business owners took the stage, each with just 5 minutes to pitch their growth and sustainability plans. The stakes were high, with a chance to win up to $5,000 to fuel their business dreams.
From tailored HR solutions and clean beauty products to community-driven food services and innovative design, each entrepreneur brought their vision to life with passion, clarity, and purpose.
Meet the Contestants
Shaheed Rucker – CMCA Change-Makers Creative
Shaheed’s Philadelphia-based creative agency specializes in branding, experiential design, and interior art. His work transforms businesses and communities, including projects like Down North Pizza, which empowers formerly incarcerated individuals through employment.
Ikram Najid – InBeauty
Ikram’s InBeauty delivers plant-based, vegan beauty products and luxury salon services that inspire self-confidence. Her commitment to clean beauty and empowering women sets her brand apart, creating a loyal and growing community.
Corrine Green – HRMom LLC
Corrine’s HRMom LLC provides small businesses—particularly Black, minority, and women-owned companies—with tailored HR solutions. From compliance and recruitment to operational efficiency, HRMom is helping businesses build strong, sustainable foundations.
Glynis Tart – Verden Interior Design Studio
Glynis leads Verden Interior Design Studio, a firm specializing in commercial and residential design with a focus on restaurants, offices, and institutions. Her innovative approach, including plans to incorporate AI tools, is revolutionizing client experiences.
Kasai Smith – L.A. Taco Bistro
Kasai’s L.A. Taco Bistro addresses food deserts in Chester, PA, with fresh, soulful Mexican cuisine. Recently expanding with a food truck, Kasai is taking his community-centered business to new audiences and building on years of success.
And the Winners Are…
🏆 1st Place – $5,000
Corrine Green – HRMom LLC
Corrine’s pitch showcased her dedication to helping small businesses thrive by providing critical HR infrastructure. The prize will enable her to develop digital HR tools and expand her services to meet the growing demand.
🥈 2nd Place – $3,000
Glynis Tart – Verden Interior Design Studio
Glynis impressed the judges with her plans to integrate AI technology into her design process, increase efficiency, and scale her business as a premier design firm in the Philadelphia region.
🥉 3rd Place – $2,000
Shaheed Rucker – CMCA Change-Makers Creative
Shaheed’s pitch highlighted his unique approach to combining art, branding, and social impact. The prize money will help him produce a major art exhibition at Philadelphia’s African American Museum, introducing his work to broader audiences.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This event was made possible by the support of Citizens Bank, whose sponsorship continues to empower small businesses and fuel dreams of growth.
We also extend our gratitude to our esteemed panel of judges and Citizens Bank representatives, whose thoughtful evaluations and expertise guided this incredible evening:
- Nianne Sheppard – Branch Manager & Green Ambassador, Citizens Bank
- Bill Rivkin – Business Banking Virtual Relationship Manager, Citizens Bank
- Ivey Ibrahim – Business Consultant
Their insights and encouragement helped shine a light on each entrepreneur’s vision and potential.
A Celebration of Entrepreneurs
The Growth Plan Pitch Event was a true celebration of creativity, innovation, and community impact. Congratulations to all of the contestants for their hard work, dedication, and bold visions for the future.
Your Business Could Be Next
The Growth Plan Pitch Event highlights the transformative power of funding and support for small businesses. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level, Entrepreneur Works offers a range of small business loans and grants to help you achieve your goals.
Visit our website to learn more about how we can help fund your growth:
🔗 Small Business Loans & Grants in Philadelphia.
We are committed to empowering entrepreneurs, breaking barriers, and fostering sustainable success.
Stay tuned for more highlights, updates, and opportunities as we continue to celebrate and support small businesses in our community.
