By Ray York, Business Counselor for the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Green Bay
Sheboygan County, WI – Accelerate Sheboygan County (AccelSC), a program dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation across the region, hosted its annual Pitch Competition on Tuesday, = November 11, bringing together local founders and innovators to share their big ideas.
Congratulations to Hal Specht II, founder of Re-Specht Adventure, for earning first place and taking home the $2,000 grand prize. Re-Specht Adventure’s business model is leveled in helping mobile-home owners stabilize and maintain their homes with precision, care and ease. His company offers fully managed leveling and structural services. From inspection through repair, Hal’s services ensure safety and long-term value for residents. With his hands-on approach and dedication to community integrity, Hal impressed judges by showing how his work turns uncertainty into a secure foundation for families and property owners alike.
Jared Soto, founder of Dream Catcher Energies, secured second place and received the People’s Choice Award. Soto’s company focuses on creating innovative, renewable energy solutions that harness natural power in new and efficient ways. His passion for sustainability and creative approach to clean energy innovation earned him well-deserved recognition and a combined $1,250 in prize funding. Learn more about Dream Catcher Energies at dreamcatcherenergies.com
“This year’s competitors showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial drive that makes Sheboygan County such a dynamic place to live and do business,” said Don Hammond, Chair of the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC). “Hal and Jared represent the kind of innovative spirit that strengthens our regional economy and inspires others to pursue their own business ideas.”
The AccelSC Pitch Competition was held at Jakes A Lakeland Community in Sheboygan and featured entrepreneurs from across the county. Contestants shared their business concepts with a panel of judges and a live audience, highlighting the breadth of innovation in Sheboygan County, from sustainability to consumer product goods, and technology.
AccelSC extends thanks to its sponsors, Associated Bank, Wells Fargo, WBD, and New North for supporting the event and helping make it possible. Special appreciation also goes to Lakeland University for providing the beautiful venue, and to our judges, emcee, and volunteers whose expertise continue to strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The winners will go on to represent Sheboygan County at the NEW Launch Alliance Regional Pitch Competition on December 3rd at Titletown Tech in Green Bay, where they will compete against other top innovators from across Northeast Wisconsin.
AccelSC and its partners, including the Sheboygan County Innovation Council and the SCEDC, remain committed to supporting entrepreneurs throughout every stage of their journey, from ideation to launch and growth. Together, we continue to build a stronger, more connected entrepreneurial community in Sheboygan County.
For more information about AccelSC entrepreneurial services, please visit AccelSC.com or contact Ray York at York@SheboyganCountyEDC.com or (920) 452-2479.
