Sheboygan County Entrepreneurs Advance to Regional Pitch Competition at TitletownTech
SHEBOYGAN COUNTY, WI – Local entrepreneurial talent was on display Tuesday, Nov. 7 as Accelerate Sheboygan County (AccelSC), in partnership with New North, hosted its November Pitch Competition at Jake’s Café, A Lakeland University Community.
The event brought together seven entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community supporters to celebrate innovative ideas and the people working to turn them into successful businesses.
Taking first place and the $1,500 prize was Josiah Pledl, founder of Beacon, a business focused on helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment while assisting employers in identifying opportunities to better utilize the talents and abilities of an often-overlooked workforce.
Beacon’s approach focuses on identifying real business needs, creating productive employment opportunities, and providing the support necessary for long-term success. With 14 years of experience in disability services, education, and workforce development, Pledl hopes to build a model that benefits employees, employers, and the broader community.
Second place and the $1,000 prize went to Jerry Lundy, founder of AJ Washouts, while Tyler Rezachek, founder of AntiMussel, received the $500 People’s Choice Award, recognizing the audience’s favorite presentation.
Pledl and Lundy will now advance to the NEW Launch Alliance Regional Pitch Competition on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, at TitletownTech in Green Bay, where they will represent Sheboygan County and compete against entrepreneurs from across the New North region for additional prize money and opportunities to grow their businesses.
Each participating entrepreneur presented their business concept, growth strategy, and vision to a panel of four judges, followed by questions and feedback from the panel.
AccelSC extends its appreciation to the evening’s judges for volunteering their time, expertise, and insight:
- Megan Schaalma, Lakeshore College
- Lee Veldkamp, Simply Earth
- Mark Maurer, WBD
- Tara Carr, Small Business Development Center at UW-Green Bay
The evening was emceed by Ross Niemi, co-owner of The Metal Ware Corporation, entrepreneur, angel investor, and member of the Sheboygan County Innovation Council.
The competition was made possible through the support of AccelSC’s valued partners and sponsors, including Lakeland University, Wells Fargo, WBD, New North, Associated Bank, Advantage Prototype Systems (APS3D), and the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC). Special recognition goes to WBD for its support of the competition’s cash prizes.
Through its partnership with New North, Accelerate Sheboygan County continues to strengthen the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by helping aspiring and established business owners access valuable connections, business counseling, financial resources, and opportunities to grow.
Congratulations to Josiah, Jerry, and Tyler, along with all seven entrepreneurs who shared their ideas and demonstrated the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit found throughout Sheboygan County.
To learn more about entrepreneurial resources, upcoming competitions, and opportunities available through Accelerate Sheboygan County, visit www.accelsc.com.
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About the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation
The Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) works to strengthen the local economy by supporting business growth and expansion, entrepreneurship, housing development, workforce initiatives, and community investment. Through partnerships with businesses, municipalities, and community organizations, SCEDC works to ensure Sheboygan County remains a competitive and thriving place to live, work, and do business.
