Charles Town, W.Va. — Innovation and entrepreneurship took center stage in Jefferson County as the 2026 Jump Start Jefferson Pitch Competition recognized several promising small business ideas during a successful event held May 13 in Charles Town.
Hosted by the Jefferson County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and sponsored by Potomac Bank and Varsity Travel, the competition awarded a total of $11,500 in cash prizes to finalists pitching their business ideas before judges and community supporters.
Kris Warner provided the official welcome to attendees and also served as one of the judges, joined by Tyler Tummolo and Steve Stolipher.
EDA Director Daryl Cowles congratulated all six finalists for their entrepreneurial efforts and creative business concepts.
Prize Winners:
- 1st Place Grand Prize ($7,500): Mckenna Valasek — Simply Smoothies
- 2nd Place ($2,500): Samantha Ramsburg — Elite Apparel and Designs
- People’s Choice Award ($500): Samantha Ramsburg — Elite Apparel and Designs
- 3rd Place ($1,000): Ririka Evans — Home Cooking Solutions, LLC
Additional Finalists:
- Adrienne “Sam” Makita — Harpers Ferry School of Massage
- Trevor Held — Spirited Grounds, LLC
- Kayla Harrell — Tapas Mar
The annual competition continues to highlight entrepreneurship and small business development in Jefferson County, giving local innovators a platform to pitch ideas and earn funding to help bring their visions to life.
