Youth Entrepreneurs Shine at Pitch Black, Securing Over $20,000 in Seed Funding

Youth Entrepreneurs Shine at Pitch Black, Securing Over $20,000 in Seed Funding

CHICAGO -- The Gray Matter Experience hosted its annual Pitch Black event at the BMO Tower, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of young Black and Brown change agents. The event featured a dynamic pitch competition, for high school students, aged 14-18 and a vibrant Young Black Entrepreneur Market, showcasing the talents of aspiring business leaders ages 18-24.

The evening was filled with creativity and innovation as participants from The Gray Matter Experience’s programs presented their business ideas to an expert panel of judges, which included Eventnoire Co-Founder Jeff Osuji. Participants competed for over $20,000 in seed funding and pro bono business resources. The atmosphere was electric as these young entrepreneurs demonstrated their passion for community impact and their vision for the future.

“Gray Matter disrupts historically limiting educational paradigms to envision a radically different way forward, becoming a catalyst that connects young Black people to entrepreneurial education and experiences that ignite their unrealized possibilities and potential,” said Kenya Merritt, Chicago Deputy Mayor of Business and Neighborhood Development “By learning entrepreneurship and all the skills that come with participating in this cohort young people gain the knowledge to create opportunities for themselves, others and we hope also for their communities here in Chicago.”

The evening also highlighted the achievements of graduates from the Hustle Hacks program, who showcased their products and services at the Young Black Entrepreneur Market. These young “sidepreneurs,” aged 18-24, have spent the last 8 weeks refining their business skills through virtual cohorts and mentorship from industry experts. The market provided them with an invaluable opportunity to connect with customers, gain real-world experience, and expand their networks.

Dereon Pyles, one of the winners of the pitch competition, shared his excitement: “Winning this competition is a dream come true. I will be using the seed funding and resources we’ve received for 501C3 applications and grant writing workshops that will allow us to take our business to the next level. I’m so grateful to The Gray Matter Experience for believing in my vision.”

Meet the Winners:

Elijah Casselle,16 – WE GOT SHOEZ: An online shoe store dedicated to refurbishing used sneakers to like-new condition. WEGOTSHOEZ combines affordability with quality to make high-end, quality footwear accessible to everyone. Awarded $7,500 in seed funding and pro bono services.

Dereon Pyles, 17 – OPERATION YOUNG SANTA: A nonprofit providing the unhoused with essential items for both summer and winter, along with food and care packages. Awarded $5,000 in seed funding and pro bono services.

Kyrah Ousley, 17 – CHANEL THE STYLIST: A hair company on the South Side of Chicago that specializes in braids. Awarded $3,000 in seed funding and pro bono services.

Sofia Smith, 18 –SCS SWIM: An eco-friendly swimsuit brand that celebrates diversity and contributes to ocean preservation. Awarded a $750 in a business micro-grant

Endea Johnson, 17 – HAZARDOUS APPAREL: A streetwear brand that’s changing the look of streetwear attire. Awarded $750 in a business micro-grant.

In addition to the cash awards, winners received pro bono services, including business consulting, financial advice, ux/ui design and branding support, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to bring their ideas to fruition.

“We want to make sure that students have access, networks and support as they establish their businesses.” said Stacey Pitts Caldwell, Senior Director of Development and Operations at The Gray Matter Experience “Their determination and innovative ideas are exactly what our world needs. The resources and mentorship they’ve gained here will undoubtedly propel them toward success.”

The Gray Matter Experience continues to be a catalyst for change, providing young Black and Brown entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed. Pitch Black 2024 was a testament to the organization’s commitment to empowering the next generation of business leaders and creating lasting social impact.

The Gray Matter Experience empowers young Black people, ages 14-24, to disrupt the status quo, mobilize innovative ideas, and champion their communities. Since 2016, they've supported more than 2,000 young people through personal development, business education, and nurturing their commitment to social impact. To learn more about The Gray Matter Experience and its programs visit www.graymatterexperience.com.

Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

Laticia Holbert of ComEd