Mandan_Business_Pitch_Challenge_Logo_PNG_(002)
Business Pitch Challenge logo.

Finalists Selected for Mandan Business Pitch Challenge on Oct. 15

Sept. 12, 2025 –An independent selection committee has reviewed business start-up applications for the 2025 Mandan Business Pitch Challenge. The four finalists are:
  • Soda Drop by Kimberly & Darren Hertz – dirty soda company and food service operation
  • Pronto Chore by Vaughn Deinhart, Michael Storick and Arnie Strebe – technology platform connecting small businesses and homeowners with local “ProntoPros” to complete seasonal, residential and commercial chores
  • Learning Loft Childcare by Tauni & Cameron Causey – childcare center
  • Dakota Soda by Samantha Roth – soda shop with craft sodas, specialty drinks, snacks and branded merchandise

Finalists will pitch their business proposals to judges Oct. 15 at Central Station Bar & Events, 111 Collins Ave. Doors open at 5 p.m. with contestant presentations beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for a people’s choice award recipient. For planning purposes, registration is requested by Oct. 8 at cityofmandan.com/register or by calling 701-667-3489.

The selection panel evaluated contestant applications and executive summaries of business plans for content including thoroughness of information, research and analysis; innovativeness in terms of how their product or service is creative or different than others on the market or in the community; target customer identification; market fit; public benefits to Mandan; scalability; strength of leadership team; use of prizes; and feasibility. A new set of judges in the live round will score these factors plus pitch delivery, responses to questions, and whether the proposal is bankable or investable.

All finalists will receive coaching through the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers, and other prizes. The challenge winner will be eligible for $10,000 forgivable loan from the Mandan Growth Fund, plus other products and services to aid in ramping up a business. New this year, the Mandan Growth Fund is also offering second place a $3,000 forgivable loan and third place a $2,000 forgivable loan.

The 6th annual Mandan Business Pitch Challenge is hosted by the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC and City of Mandan Business Development & Communications Department with assistance from the North Dakota Small Business Development Center. Additional information on the competition is available at cityofmandan.com/businesspitch.