Winning Coos County Pitch Night

On January 17, 2025, the Coos County Pitch Night brought together five local entrepreneurs at the historic Egyptian Theatre in Coos Bay to present their business ideas to a panel of advisors and a packed audience. Organized by the South Coast Development Council (SCDC) and sponsored by Pacific Power, the event was more than just a competition—it was a chance to refine ideas, receive invaluable feedback, and connect with the community.

I had the privilege of not only competing but also winning first place—a testament to the time, effort, and guidance that went into crafting my pitch for Coos Tech Ninja. But I didn’t do it alone.

The Power of Coaching & Storytelling

I was paired with Ashley Schaer, an incredible coach with a deep understanding of visual storytelling and human psychology. As someone who thinks like an engineer, my instinct is to prove my value through logic, data, and expertise. But Ashley helped me step back and craft a compelling narrative—one that focused less on proving myself and more on clearly articulating:

1. What I do – Helping small and mid-sized businesses streamline operations, integrate technology, and automate processes.

2. Who I help – Business owners struggling with disjointed systems, wasted employee time, and operational inefficiencies.

3. How I solve their problems – By building tailored tech solutions that eliminate friction, save time, and drive measurable growth.

We met constantly, practiced relentlessly, and refined every detail of the pitch. It wasn’t just about the words—it was about engaging the audience, making the story relatable, and ensuring my message resonated.

Pitch Night & The Big Win

When it was time to step on stage, I felt prepared, focused, and ready to deliver. And it paid off—I took home first place. But more importantly, I walked away with a crystal-clear understanding of my business, my value, and the impact I want to create.

A Win for the Entire Community

Every participant at Coos County Pitch Night delivered a strong, well-thought-out pitch, showcasing the incredible talent and innovation brewing in our community. The event wasn’t just about competition—it was about collaboration, mentorship, and collective growth. I hope to return next year, whether as a participant or a mentor, to support the next wave of entrepreneurs making their mark.

A huge thank you to SCDC, Pacific Power, Ashley Schaer, and everyone who made this event possible. This experience helped refine my vision for Coos Tech Ninja, and I can’t wait to put that vision into action—helping local businesses unlock the full potential of technology, automation, and streamlined operations.

Want to learn more about how technology can transform your business? Let’s connect. 🚀