The 2025 S.H.E. Pitch competition put Frederick’s women entrepreneurs in the spotlight once again, with finalists pitching ideas and established businesses before a live audience and panel of judges.
Hosted at Hood College’s Hodson Auditorium, the annual S.H.E. Pitch event is part of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s S.H.E. Week. A long-time event sponsor of S.H.E. Pitch, the City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development (DED) was honored to serve on both the judging panel and selection committee again this year.
Why S.H.E. Pitch Matters
The pitch competition amplifies the visibility of women-led businesses and connects them with mentors, resources, and the greater Frederick community as female entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in either the “idea stage” and “growth stage” of business. Winners are awarded over $10,000, offering vital financial support and investment in their business success.
Meet the Winners
Two Frederick City businesses walked away with the win. Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand, founded by Michelle Bryan, won the Growth Stage prize in addition to the People’s Choice Award. NCE BIM Consulting, led by Ngoc Chau, earned first place in the Idea Stage category.
Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting
Idea Stage Winner: Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting
About NCE BIM Consulting: NCE BIM Consulting is a forward-thinking construction company that focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technology to excel in both commercial and residential building projects. The company’s expertise lies in the strategic application of 3D technologies, revolutionizing workflows and productivity, particularly in managing large-scale endeavors. Founded in 2020, NCE BIM Consulting enhances the construction process through innovative Building Information Modeling (BIM) solutions that elevate construction projects with confidence and precision.
Ngoc Chau, NCE BIM Consulting
Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand
Growth Stage Winner: Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand. Michelle also took home the People’s Choice Award, securing an additional $500.
About Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand: Sweet Maddie’s Bakery has created gourmet cookies, desserts, and from-scratch cakes for lovers of sweet things for over a decade. A family-run business, Sweet Maddie’s is dedicated to providing fresh-baked goods that are made with all-natural ingredients, free from preservatives and additives, with many ingredients sourced from small, local businesses whenever possible. Today, Sweet Maddie’s operates as a fully licensed online bakery, baking out of the commercial kitchen The Cutting Board.
Michelle Bryan, Sweet Maddie’s – Cookies on Demand
For the DED, continued support reflects a long-term commitment to cultivating diverse entrepreneurship and supporting businesses at phase.
A full recap of the event is available through the Frederick News-Post.
Photo credit: Acacia Bowens, AK’s GraFix & Photo
To connect about programs and resources supporting business growth and expansion, reach out to the City’s Economic Development team - businessinfrederick@cityoffrederickmd.gov