Lowcountry Local First (LLF), a nonprofit focused on local economic development, hosted its fourth annual “Ready, Set, Pitch!” competition on Oct. 11, awarding a $10,000 cash prize to a local entrepreneur.
Graduates of the organization’s 12-week La Academia — a Community Business Academy taught in Spanish — were invited to apply in August by submitting videos and pitch decks to an outside review committee. The top five entrepreneurs then received one-on-one coaching from Elliot Friedman of E.T. Friedman Consulting before presenting live at the Palmetto Goodwill Corporate Office. The event drew family, friends and a panel of judges from the local business community.
The five finalists were:
- Ana Laverde – Ana’s Immigration Solutions
- Maria Heidy Pinzon and Daniel Villalobos – Delicias del Tio
- Gibson Gavidia – Glamour & Caprichos
- Natalia Cortés – Holistic Maternal Care
- Mary Carmen Tovar – TuttiChurros
The judging panel included:
- Nancy Leon, South Carolina Community Loan Fund
- David Lopez, Huntington Bank
- Orian Rodriguez, South Atlantic Bank
- Monica Correa, Steinberg Law Firm
Each of the five finalists also has the opportunity to apply for additional funding through Kiva, a global microfinance platform that offers entrepreneurs the chance to borrow up to $15,000 at 0% interest.
The $10,000 grand prize was awarded to Ana Laverde, founder of Ana’s Immigration Solutions. Originally from Colombia, Laverde’s personal journey as a migrant inspired her to launch a business dedicated to helping others navigate the complex immigration process. Through her work, she provides personalized guidance and support to individuals and families seeking to build new lives in the United States. She plans to use the funds to develop a mobile application and hire qualified freelancers to help bring the project to life.
“Ana’s entrepreneurial journey and innovative vision are an inspiring example of what’s possible when creativity meets community support,” said Javier Jimenez Pereira, business development manager at LLF. “Her work reflects not only her dedication and talent but also the rich diversity that strengthens our local business ecosystem. At LLF, we are deeply committed to empowering entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, and seeing Ana’s success reinforces the importance of inclusive economic development.”
The Good Enterprises initiative — implemented by LLF — serves as a catalyst for reshaping the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to create equitable opportunities for business ownership and community transformation. The program uses the curriculum and award-winning business simulation model developed by Rising Tide Capital in New Jersey, which serves more than 600 entrepreneurs annually with an 87% survival rate beyond the five-year mark.
Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply now for the Spring 2026 Community Business Academy, which begins in February and will offer classes in both Spanish and English. Scholarships are available, and all experience levels are welcome to apply.
For more information or to submit an inquiry, visit goodenterprises.org