Innovate Mississippi was proud to partner with Higher Purpose Hub for an unforgettable pitch competition in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. Held at the Club Ebony in Indianola, the event was a fun mash-up of entrepreneurship, innovation—and Mississippi cookin’! With blues music on the speakers and a spread of farm-raised catfish and hush puppies for attendees, the stage was set for startup founders from the region to give their best pitches.
First Place went to Alicia and Hugh Robinson of Lush Drinks and Vegan Eats, whose unique approach to health-conscious food stood out in a state known for its traditional Southern fare. Kristal Hillie of Inspire Health & Wellness earned Second Place with a powerful story of perseverance—returning to grow her business after earning her doctorate in nursing. Third Place went to Lonagcio Smith of Dynamic Technologies, offering technology services and sales in Greenville, Miss.
The event, as described by Higher Purpose Hub’s Shakira Wyms, was more than a competition—it was a cultural experience and a testament to the Delta’s entrepreneurial talent. Hosted in a venue steeped in musical history, attendees enjoyed inspiring business pitches and an immersive sensory experience featuring classic blues, traditional Delta cuisine, and a supportive, intergenerational crowd.
Wyms also shared updates about Higher Purpose Hub’s exciting rebranding and revitalization efforts. As a regional nonprofit intermediary, the organization focuses on expanding intergenerational economic opportunities throughout the Delta. Their upcoming space will serve as a community hub, offering entrepreneurship, technology, food, and the arts programs. This pitch competition marked a milestone in their partnership with Innovate Mississippi to provide tools, resources, and visibility to local founders.
We’re thrilled to support events like these that help elevate entrepreneurs across Mississippi. Congratulations to all who pitched, and a special thanks to Higher Purpose Hub for hosting an inspiring event. We’re excited to see how these companies—and this partnership—grow in the years to come!
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0003 awarded to Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
