Pitch winners step into spotlight as PHKC helps emerging small biz owners shine on stage (Photos) 

Jacquinta Nelson stood before a packed crowd at The Porter House KC’s Pitch Night this week, sharing her vision for S.T.E.P. Movement, a community-based step team designed to uplift young girls. Moments later, she was awarded a $4,000 grand prize.

Members of S.T.E.P. Movement — a group led by Jacquinta Nelson — performer during The Porter House KC’s pitch event at the Gem Theater; photo by Nikki Overfelt Chifalu, Startland News

The recognition was deeply personal for Nelson, who is dedicated to mentoring youth to be their most confident and authentic selves, she said.

“I needed someone in my life that supported me when society passed me by, and my goal is to be that person for girls so they never have to experience what I did,” Nelson said.

Winning the award for S.T.E.P. Movement affirmed that she’s on the right path and motivated Nelson to expand her efforts — including plans to take the girls on a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour Howard University.

“This helps us continue the work that we were destined to do. It makes the vision of our journey a reality,” Nelson added.

The Porter House KC’s 15-week business development program culminated Wednesday night at the Gem Theater with a high-energy competition where local entrepreneurs showcased their businesses. In partnership with JPMorganChase, the event awarded $8,000 to standout founders, helping them take their ventures to the next level.

Charon Thompson, co-founder of The Porter House KC, speaks to a crowd at the Gem Theater during PHKC’s pitch competition for its Cohort No. 6; photo by Nikki Overfelt Chifalu, Startland News

Dan Smith, co-founder of The Porter House KC, emphasized that Pitch Night is about more than just winning.

“Our goal is to help elevate businesses in the community by giving them an opportunity to share what they’ve learned and where they’re going,” Smith said of the cohort-driven program. “When they finish, they walk out as a tight-knit group. Beyond the technical knowledge, they leave with a network of partners who truly understand their journey.”

Check out a Startland News photo gallery from the pitch competition below.

Adell Kirkwood III, founder of A Kid and a Kitchen, accepts the second-place award during The Porter House KC’s pitch competition; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

Second-place winner Adell Kirkwood III, founder of A Kid and a Kitchen, received $2,000 to continue his work blending culinary arts with youth education.

“The program gave us insight into things we never even thought of — business etiquette, professionalism, all of it. It was an incredible experience,” said Kirkwood III.

Porshia Mitchell, founder of Cocoa Spaces, poses with a check naming her winner of the third place pitch award at the PHKC competition; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

Porshia Mitchell, founder of Cocoa Spaces, a micro event space, was awarded third place and a $1,000 prize — an unexpected but welcome boost.

“I’ve never won anything in my life, and I just can’t wait to use this to grow my business and give back to Kansas City,” Mitchell shared. “I’ve learned so much about how to elevate my business, scale it, and connect with other entrepreneurs along the way.”

Shania Samuels, founder of Beyond Barre Fitness, celebrates winning the Fan Favorite award at The Porter House KC’s pitch competition; photo by Taylor Wilmore, Startland News

The Fan Favorite award, chosen by Wednesday’s live audience at the pitch competition, went to Shania Samuels, founder of Beyond Barre Fitness. She received $1,000 for her Pilates and Barre fitness community, which is fostering inclusivity and creating a supportive environment in Kansas City.

Additional Kansas City entrepreneurs who competed at Wednesday’s Pitch Night included:

Krysanthum (Konnie Wells) — transforms beauty tools and accessories with 3D-printed products. Some of her innovations include the SnapBand, a bracelet that holds styling gel and products, and the Fold & Go Hair Rack, a portable solution for hairstylists.

Dear You Yoga (Danielle Smalls) — offers a transformative space for self-care through yoga and mindfulness practices. Dedicated to fostering wellness, Dear You Yoga provides classes and resources designed to nurture both the body and mind.

Lil Bit’z Taste of Soul (Katie Basey) — a food truck business serving authentic soul food to the Kansas City community. They currently provide catering services and accept call-in orders.

Legacy Inspired HR Solutions (Alicia McDougal) — specializes in comprehensive human resources services for businesses, offering tailored solutions in talent acquisition, employee relations, and compliance.

Shawn Lee Photography & Art (Shawn Lee) — partners with creatives, women, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to craft impactful visuals through professional photography.

Long Life Enterprises (B. Michael Long) — promotes community wealth through cryptocurrency. His TikCoin project helps small businesses by offering low-cost, secure transactions.

Check out more event photos by Taylor Wilmore and Nikki Overfelt Chifalu, Startland News.