Photo Courtesy of Kesley Knox
Florida A&M University students are preparing to showcase their entrepreneurial talents in the WBENC Women of Color Incubator case competition on December 5. This year, the competition will feature a new cohort of students, giving fresh participants the chance to pitch their ideas, receive mentorship, and compete for opportunities to grow their businesses.
Last Year’s Winner
Last year, fourteen FAMU students competed, with Tyjah Tuggles winning the top prize, which included a trip to the WBENC National Conference in New Orleans in March and a $5,000 award.
“I thank God, I really appreciate it, and I just want to say thank WBENC so much,” Tuggles said.
Tuggles founded the KOTK Writing Company, offering the KOTK 3-in-1 Planning Journal, a devotional, planner, and journal for believers, after losing her great-grandmother during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey of 60 believers showed 91% would benefit from the journal, and Tuggles received funding to support her January launch.
The incubator provides resources, mentorship, and support to help students develop business ideas and turn them into successful startups.
Pitching Advice
Lina Suber, Assistant Manager for the Women of Color Incubator, shared tips for crafting a winning pitch. She emphasized the importance of being clear about the business plan, market, and growth strategy.
“Was it engaging and persuasive? Do they know their revenue model and market?” Suber said. She added, “You have 3 minutes to sell yourself. Put your game face on. Practice makes perfect, and just be yourself.”
Other last year’s participants included Tatiana Bell of Belle Luxe Media, Laila Archer of WrapStar, Amira Churchwell of The Swirl, Juanita McDaniel of Jenesis Management, Kalle Herring of iVision Daily Guides, Mariah Moore of Inner Divinity, and Bianca Plancher of Caked Up.
With a new cohort of students stepping into the spotlight this December, FAMU and the WBENC Women of Color Incubator are set to continue fostering entrepreneurship, mentorship, and innovation among aspiring young business leaders.
