Frederick Community College’s Hospitality, Culinary & Tourism Institute recently hosted its Food Business Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition, highlighting the creativity and drive of emerging food entrepreneurs in our region.
Competition Winners
Congratulations to the top three participants:
1st Place: Play Cafe – Holly Nelson
A concept combining coffee, casual dining, and a play area for children.
2nd Place: The Cajun Cafe – Carmen Keys
A restaurant focused on Cajun and Creole cuisine.
3rd Place: Doladaze - David Veal
A healthy ice cream brand designed to offer great taste with better nutrition.
Each participant presented their business idea to a panel of industry professionals and local economic development leaders. To complement their pitches, entrepreneurs also offered samples or signature dishes, helping bring their concepts to life.
About the Program
The pitch event is part of the Food Business Entrepreneurship Program, which is offered at no cost to participants thanks to support from The City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development and the Frederick County Office of Agriculture. The program provides practical training in areas such as financial planning, marketing, regulatory compliance, and facility design—helping participants prepare to launch or grow their food businesses.
Earlier this fall, the program received the Gold Award for Excellence in Economic Development – Institutional Partnerships from the International Economic Development Council. It’s a strong example of how local collaboration can support small business development and strengthen the regional food economy.
To date, 124 individuals have completed the program. We’re proud to support these entrepreneurs and look forward to seeing their businesses develop in the community.
Interested in starting a new food business in Frederick? Reach out to the City’s Department of Economic Development to learn more about the start-up process, 301.600.6360 or businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov .