Entrepreneurs shine at Kenosha Innovation Center's `Perfect Pitch' competition

Wauwatosa-based investment startup took first place this week at the Kenosha Innovation Center’s inaugural Perfect Pitch competition.

Touted as a “Warren Buffet-style” value investing platform, Tykr and its CEO and founder Sean Tepper won the $5,000 top prize. The innovation center’s contest called on 10 finalists to pitch their products to a panel of judges.

Second place and $3,000 were awarded to Bradley Steckart of the Mequon-based Sit By Me startup, which connects remote workers and businesses, enabling them to meet, mingle and collaborate in safe environments via a map app.

Third place and $1,500 went to Offline Wine and owner Sarah Mack of Lake Geneva, a sister-founded company that offers specially curated European wines with “cheeky” labels.

Rachel Gage of Caregiver Compass, a Racine company that supports caregivers and the people they care for, won the “Audience Favorite” award and $500.

The competition was akin to the reality TV show “Shark Tank,” where contestants attempt to convince investors their innovation or idea deserves support. Pitch Perfect marked one of the first major events at the center, which presenters look to continue in the future.

The panel of five judges included Dana Guthrie, managing partner of Gateway Capital; Rob Davis, vice president of marketing of Nosco; Minna Dinh-Stuver, senior business consultant with Chase for Business; Meg Sranske, a retired executive with SC Johnson; and Jason Jacobsohn, managing partner of Propellent Ventures.

The event was presented by sponsor Chase and regional partners Gateway Technical College, WWBIC, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Kenosha Area Business Alliance, Tech Prize, the Racine County Economic Development Corporation, Walworth County Economic Development Alliance, Carthage College, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and the Wisconsin Technology Council.

“Pitch Perfect celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit that’s driving growth and opportunity across Southeast Wisconsin,” said Kelly Armstrong, Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood president. “The collaboration between our regional partners shows the strength of our innovation ecosystem and the incredible potential of the founders building the next generation of Wisconsin businesses.”