eosera
The 2023 winner was Sarah Morgan, left, with Elyse Dickerson of eosera.
Three Texas-based women entrepreneurs have been selected finalists in the third eosera® Pitch Competition.
The three were chosen from among 125 entrants, the eosera® Foundation said on Tuesday morning.
The finalists, all founders of companies less than three years old, are:
- Dr. Meena McCullough of Body Spring, Euless. Established in 2022, Body Spring developed PressEX, a revolutionary tool and program for mobilizing fascia for improved movement, flexibility, and chronic pain relief.
- Lynn Callaway of good dirt®, Austin. Launched in January 2024, good dirt® offers prebiotic mushroom-based sodas with low sugar content and natural ingredients, entering a rapidly growing segment of the better-for-you beverage category.
- Addison LaBonte of Sweet Addison's, Dallas. Founded in 2023, Sweet Addison's creates gluten-free, dairy-free desserts that are both delicious and health-conscious, carving a unique niche in the better-for-you treats category with soft, thick desserts.
"We were staggered both by the number and accomplishments of this year’s women entrepreneurs who entered the competition,” said Elyse Stoltz Dickerson, CEO of eosera®, in a statement. "Selecting just three finalists was an incredibly difficult process for our semifinalist judges. But these women exemplify the innovation and diversity we aim to support through this competition. Their businesses not only address unique market needs but also demonstrate the leadership and vision of women-led enterprises in Texas."
The competition, designed to support, elevate, and empower female-led businesses, will award the top winners $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 prizes, plus one additional $5,000 People’s Choice prize.
The finalists will pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges and a live audience from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Kimbell Art Museum. Kellie Raspberry, co-host of the KHKS 106.1 Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, will emcee.
"This contribution will make a real impact in supporting the growth of a business in our community," said Lori S. Baldock, president of Simmons Bank, Fort Worth market. "We understand the impact of supporting entrepreneurs, women, and Texans as they navigate the challenges in business, and that’s why we are proud to participate again."
The eosera® pitch competition, now in its third year, is part of the foundation's commitment to nurturing the next generation of female business leaders in Texas.
The eosera® Foundation Pitch Competition finalist awards and gifts are:
- Simmons Bank First Place: $15,000
- Higginbotham Second Place: $10,000
- Satori Capital Third Place: $5,000
- iHeartIMPACT People’s Choice: $5,000
- TechFW Pitch Coaching: Value of $1,750
- Alumni Pitch Mentorship from Sarah Morgan (2023 Winner) and Ayo Aigbe (2023 runner-up)