STARTUP PITCH COMPETITION

MEET THE WINNERS

Our 2025 Pitch Competition brought together 11 teams of entrepreneurs, students, and innovators to pitch their ideas and businesses before a panel of judges and community members. With $5,000 in total cash prizes awarded, this year’s event showcased the creativity, drive, and talent fueling Ada’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

We’ve been hosting this competition since 2018, and while the name and format have evolved over the years, our mission has always remained the same — to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs to grow, test their ideas, and take the next step in their business journey.

This year’s showcase reflected the strength of Ada’s innovation community — from high school students developing new business concepts to established founders expanding their companies. Events like this highlight the collaboration, mentorship, and support that make Ada a place where ideas can take root and grow. We’re proud to continue building a community that champions entrepreneurship, fosters creativity, and celebrates the people shaping the future of our region.

This year’s participants represented a wide range of industries, ideas, and experience levels — from first-time student entrepreneurs to established business owners growing their operations. Each team brought creativity, purpose, and passion to the stage, making this one of our most inspiring showcases yet.

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2nd Place – Revenue Generating: Siege, Chris Crane

Chris is growing his exciting new axe-throwing venue, blending creativity and technology to offer a unique, fun experience that people of all ages can enjoy.

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1st Place – Idea Stage: RoundPeg, Nathan Wakefield

Nathan’s idea focuses on solving business challenges through innovative tools and creative strategy — helping organizations run more efficiently.

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2nd Place – Idea Stage: Blissful Chaos, Crystal Abel

Crystal brings a concept aimed at helping people find balance and positivity amid life’s chaos- with a focus on wellness and joy.

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Student Innovation Award: The Spot, Kinley Delozier, Maesyn Cox, & Reece Corley

This student team is reimagining a community new hangout space with a creative concept focused on connection, comfort, and fun for all ages.

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People’s Favorite: ECU Glass Recycling, Adrian Odhiambo

Adrian is leading a sustainability effort through ECU Glass Recycling, turning waste glass into a valuable resource while promoting environmental awareness.

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Our Startup Pitch Competition would not be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, partners, and community members who continue to invest in Ada’s entrepreneurial growth. Their commitment helps ensure that innovators of all ages have access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to bring their ideas to life.

Sponsors:
Citizens Bank, Vision Bank, First United Bank, LegalShield, OG&E, Pontotoc Technology Center, East Central University, City of Ada, & Mercy Hospital Ada

A special thank-you as well to Poe’s Prepping for catering the evening and to our judges — Bryan Morris, David Dickey, and Jake Cantrell — for lending their time and expertise to provide valuable feedback and encouragement to our participants.

Each year, the Conduit Startup Showcase continues to grow — not just in the number of participants, but in the depth of ideas, collaboration, and community support it inspires. We’re proud to see Ada emerging as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, where students, startups, and established businesses alike can thrive.

Thank you to everyone who participated, attended, and supported this year’s event. We can’t wait to see how these ventures continue to evolve — and we’re already looking forward to next year’s showcase as we keep building bridges for innovation, growth, and community.