Last year, I was humbled, delighted (and a little bit dazed) to receive the grand prize at Fort Worth’s annual business plan competition, sponsored by Frost Bank. I wrote a 15-page business plan and gave a live 3-minute pitch with 2 minutes of Q&A. And I won. $10,000 cash, a podcast interview with the mayor Read more about the pitch here.

This year, I attended the open house and was asked to give a small spiel — describing my experience and inspiring the next set of contestants.

I was surprised to receive an email shortly after inviting me to take that same flavor of energy, and apply it as this year’s Master of Ceremonies.

I said yes.

Master of Ceremonies

So, on May 11th, I was the Master of Ceremonies for Fort Worth’s 12th annual business plan competition where I helped hand out $20k in cash prizes for local entrepreneurs. 

This was a role I didn’t have on my list or on my business plan, but it was unforgettable.

While I only had to spend 3 minutes on stage pitching my business last year, this event required that I set the tone for the 90+ minute event. I know you couldn’t make it, but you can watch the pitch competition with this link. (I jump in at the 10.18 marker.)

Fun fact — this year’s winner was Salted too, a gourmet popcorn company!