Finalists pitched last week (October 18) at the first “Greaux GNO” business plan competition created by Capital One Bank, in partnership with the Louisiana Small Business Development Center Greater New Orleans Region and the Urban League of Greater New Orleans. The competition was designed to help grow small businesses and create jobs throughout the region.
Back in July, Capital One announced the cash awards would go to the owners of the businesses whose plans appear the most creative, innovative and likely to succeed to grow their businesses and create jobs in greater New Orleans.
Finalists included: 4D Supplements, LLC; Be Well Nutrition, Inc.; Bonne Terre Landscaping; Cook Me Somethin’ Mister, LLC; Dyverse City; Elite Custom Cleaning Services, LLC; Louisiana Sisters; Mondo Murals & Design; and Professional Design Group, Inc.
Each of the finalists presented a 12-minute business plan to the panel of judges made up of local community and business leaders. Following the presentations, three were chosen for the cash prizes of $20,000, $10,000 and $5,000, respectively, and given a larger prize package that includes technical and professional assistance to enhance their businesses.
“Finalists of the ‘Greaux GNO’ business plan competition are strong small businesses that are committed to the growth of greater New Orleans,” said Steve Hemperley, Southeast Louisiana Market President for Capital One Bank. “We’re excited to work with the winners to turn those plans into a reality.”
Capital One calls their approach “Investing for Good.” The bank is committed to delivering regular banking services in addition to specialized community development such as philanthropic and career support, to generate lasting community impact and valuable business results. “Programs like ‘Greaux GNO’ demonstrate Capital One Bank’s long-standing commitment to small business and workforce development,” said a representative from the bank.