On May 19th, the Gray Matter Experience program hosted its 2nd annual Pitch Black Competition.

Throughout the 12 week program, 17 teens learned how to be an entrepreneur and learned business concepts. They then used that information to create businesses that would impact their communities. Six teams were developed and competed in the pitch competition.

All participants will walk away with a $1000 stipend to be used towards a college scholarship, a paid internship with a startup in our network or pooled together with their group members to be used as seed funding for the business, a copy of “Crushing it” by Gary V and a copy of “Start Where You Are” by Chris Garner. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of the pitch competition won additional prizes.

Brooks students McKayla Carruthers and Dartonya Wright won 1st place with their business Food For Thought Aquaponics receiving $1500, $350 in Facebook ad credits, 3 free months co-working @ mHUB ($300), A customized brand strategy from Brittany Applegate ($850) Customized Backpacks from Onli-Packs - a backpack company showcasing custom designs from local artists ($300) TOTAL VALUE: $16,875. Jovoney Morton and her team won 3rd place with their business Chicago Based receiving $500, 3 Months free co-working @ mHUB ($300), Pro Bono 30 Minute Creative Brainstorming Session w Brittany Applegate ($50) TOTAL VALUE: $15,425.

All students that participate in our summer incubator will receive pro bono legal services from Creative Genius Law (valued at $4,350), accounting services from Grants Financial Services (valued at $3,500), and web design services from Kareacter, a creative studio that helps individuals and existing businesses build their brands with character (valued at $2400). As well as free access to all Brand Chicago events.