BAY CITY, MI — Five local entrepreneurs were awarded a combined $11,750 in seed capital at the 2026 Business by the Bay Pitch Competition, hosted by the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) on Wednesday, September 16, at the John Glenn High School Auditorium.

Following live presentations before a panel of judges and a public audience, the evening concluded with the announcement of this year’s prize winners:

2026 Competition Results:

• 1st Place ($5,000): Kelli Majewski – Shear Comfort, PLLC

   

• 2nd Place ($3,500) & Fan Favorite ($200): Linzi Gotham – Compassionate Moves & More

   

• 3rd Place ($1,500): Victoria Ross – Ross Media Co.

   

• 4th Place ($1,000): Matt Elsesser – The Osgood Wedding & Events Venue

   

• 5th Place ($750): Josh Rogner – Bay City Dynamics