A radon-testing company, a nutrition consulting service, and a natural skin care line make up the winners of the 2025 NWO Pitch It event.
Held April 27, the event featured entrepreneurs from Kenora and Rainy River Districts pitching their business ideas to a panel of judges, which chose first and second place winners to take home a cash prize and in-kind support.
More than 600 votes came in for the People’s Choice Award, which was determined by the public.
First place went to Stephanie Verplaetse of Kenora for her business, Northern Airworks. Verplaetse, a registered respiratory therapist, specializes in professional radon testing and mitigation. Verplaetse received $5,000 for her pitch.
Second place was awarded to Sara Brunner of Dryden for her business, Sara Brunner Nutrition & Consulting. As a registered dietitian, Brunner provides nutritional guidance specific to those living with the effects of Lyme disease. Brunner received $3,000 following her pitch.
The People’s Choice Award was given to Ali Crandall of Lake of the Woods for Stella Apothecary, a natural skin care line. Crandall received $2,500 for her pitch.
In addition to a cash prize, winners will receive in-kind support in the form of professional services.
Pitch It is a joint initiative of the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre (NOIC), Northern Ontario Angels (NOA), and Northwest Business Centre (NWBC).
