BREW 2.0 Finale
Our BREW Grad Finale was a celebration of so much more than business ideas. It was a celebration of courage, growth, resilience, and the willingness to take a chance on something bigger.
For three full months, this cohort dedicated countless hours to developing ideas, refining business plans, learning new skills, and stepping outside of their comfort zones. Many balanced this program alongside full-time jobs, families, and busy schedules, yet continued showing up each week ready to learn and grow. On May 11th, that hard work came to life on stage.
The Winterville Chamber launched BREW with the goal of creating more than just a business class. The vision was to build a program that equips entrepreneurs with practical tools while surrounding them with encouragement, mentorship, and community support. One of the most meaningful parts of this cohort was watching participants not only grow individually, but genuinely support one another throughout the process.
Congratulations again to our top three pitch winners:
1st Place: Sip with Soul (Daysha Bullock)
2nd Place: Coffeebara (Andrea Quiroga & Bianca Gutierrez)
3rd Place: Anything But Grapes (Jazmyn Edwards)
And to all of our graduates:
Sparkle Packnett, Latoya Young, Kimberly Carter, Altimisha Little, and Michelle Loveys Dozier.
Every participant who stood on that stage should be incredibly proud. Sharing a dream publicly takes bravery, and this cohort represents the passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit continuing to grow within our community.
This year’s BREW program was made possible through the support of NCInnovation. The Chamber is also incredibly grateful for the partnership and support provided by the Town of Winterville and the Small Business Center at Pitt Community College throughout the program.
A special thank you as well to Southern Bank Foundation, whose grant support will allow every BREW graduate to receive funding to help continue moving their businesses forward after graduation.
BREW truly became an “it takes a village” effort brought to life. From our speakers and mentors to our judges, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters, so many individuals poured their time, knowledge, encouragement, and belief into these entrepreneurs.
That kind of support matters. When experienced professionals and community leaders are willing to sit at the table, answer questions, give honest feedback, open doors, and encourage someone in the early stages of building a dream, it can completely change the trajectory of a small business.
The willingness of this community to show up for one another is something special, and we hope others take notice of what can happen when people choose collaboration over competition and invest in the success of those around them.
Thank you to everyone who played a role in making this program possible. The future is bright, and this cohort is only the beginning.
