THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College’s Small Business Development Center successfully hosted the Moonshot Pitch Competition on its Thatcher Campus in mid-July. This event, part of Moonshot’s 5th Annual Rural Arizona Pitch Competition, highlighted the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in Graham and Greenlee Counties.
Moonshot, an Arizona-based nonprofit dedicated to democratizing entrepreneurial resources, facilitated the competition. Since its rebranding in 2017, Moonshot has focused on helping subject matter experts bring innovative products and services to market, while fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems in rural communities.
The event saw stellar participation from local entrepreneurs, showcasing their passion and innovative ideas to a panel of judges. The first-place winner, Matthew Artman of Arcane Gear, received $2,500 and will advance to the Moonshot State Finals, where he will compete for a $10,000 grand prize. Second place went to Trinity and Mariyah Bejarano of Revive Innovations, who received $1,500, and third place was awarded to Marcy Gonzales of Hexa Techs, who received $1,000.
“We are thrilled with the turnout and the quality of the pitches,” said Tavial Raley, EAC SBDC program coordinator. “This event truly underscores the entrepreneurial talent and innovative potential within our community.”
The competition, sponsored by the United Way of Graham & Greenlee Counties, featured ten contestants in total. Other notable pitches included:
Jennifer Winiecki’s Putt Putt Llama, an indoor mini-golf attraction in Morenci;
Sheri Volpi-Crawford’s Magnificent Me, a patented magnifying cling for mirrors;
Ashley Free’s Miriam Gazette, a social media content creation and distribution platform for women;
Tasha Layton’s Learn Your Liberation, a wellness service offering yoga, hypnotherapy, and coaching;
Celeste Goetz’s Snack Lifts, a new product for her existing business, Whimsy Balloon Creations;
Laura Bernal’s Rattleskate Company, an indoor roller skating rink;
Christopher Bernal’s Lunch Box Crew, healthy pre-packaged lunch items for job site workers.
The event was promoted through preparation workshops held on the EAC campus, where expert mentors from the EAC Small Business Development Center provided tips and guidance to participants.
“We are immensely grateful to our local sponsor, United Way of Graham & Greenlee Counties, for their support in making this event a success,” said Raley.
As Matthew Artman prepares for the state finals in Cottonwood, AZ, the community extends its best wishes for his continued success.
For more information about Moonshot and upcoming events, visit Moonshot’s website or contact Raley at tavia.raley@eac.edu or by phone at (928) 428-8590.
About Moonshot:
Moonshot is a 22-year-old Arizona-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to democratizing entrepreneurialism. We provide expertise and support to help ambitious business concepts succeed, aiming to create jobs and foster entrepreneurial ecosystems in rural areas.
About EAC SBDC:
The EAC Small Business Development Center is part of a national and statewide network of small business assistance providers. The Center’s main goal is to give local small businesses the tools and training needed to be successful. The Center is funded by Eastern Arizona College with assistance from a grant provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The SBDC provides no-cost counseling to assist entrepreneurs with finding answers to the numerous questions that arise when starting or operating a business. The SBDC works in cooperation with the SBA, local Chambers of Commerce, and other community partnerships.
To take your business to the next level, contact us at sbdc@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8590.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
