When five finalists took the stage at The Pitch on February 4, you could feel the buzz of possibility in the air. Each entrepreneur had poured their passion into a business idea that could shape the future of St. Thomas and Elgin County. After thoughtful presentations and tough deliberations, one stood out for its heart, impact, and community focus: Burkes Produce Market, led by Mark Burke, took home the grand prize of $50,000 in cash and in-kind prizes.

Not Ordinary Chips, Plack Performance Lab, Redemption Tent Events, The Atrium, and Burkes Produce Market all earned their spot in the finale. Each one brought something unique, different industries but the same shared drive to grow, create, and give back. The judges noted how well-prepared and passionate every business was, making the final decision far from easy. If anything, it proved what many already know: St. Thomas and Elgin County’s entrepreneurial spirit runs deep.

“Sometimes big opportunities start with small moments. For Burkes Produce Market, it began with a social media post. “Daynna first saw The Pitch on social media,” said Mark, “and we decided to apply simply to challenge ourselves and share what we were building at Burke’s. We went in without expectations, but with a genuine interest in learning and connecting with other local businesses.”

That openness to learn, connect, and grow defined their journey through the process. It wasn’t just about competing. It was about engaging with others who share their passion for local business.

From start to finish, The Pitch turned out to be more than a competition. “Our experience has been incredibly positive,” Mark said. “From the very first meeting through the entire process, everyone involved was encouraging, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping local businesses grow. It felt less like a competition and more like a community supporting one another.”

“It felt less like a competition and more like a community supporting one another.” – Mark Burke

 

That feeling is exactly what The Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) set out to create when it launched The Pitch in 2015. The annual Dragons’ Den style event gives local entrepreneurs in St. Thomas and Elgin County a platform to showcase their business ideas and get meaningful feedback from experienced judges, along with the chance to win a prize package that can make a real difference.

What made Burkes Produce Market the standout this year was how their vision aligned need, growth, and local impact. Their market is more than a produce stand. It is a retail hub that supports many area farmers and producers. When they grow, so do dozens of other small businesses in the region.

The judges recognized that broader ripple effect. Burkes Produce Market is not just building a successful business. They are strengthening the local economy and supporting food sustainability. As Mark explained, “Winning The Pitch means a great deal to us. It reassures us that the work we’re doing, supporting local food, local businesses, and our community, truly matters. More than anything, it gives us confidence to keep growing Burke’s in a way that benefits the entire community.”

“Winning The Pitch reassures us that the work we’re doing truly matters.” – Mark Burke

 

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the generous sponsors who make The Pitch possible each year. Without their commitment, the EBRC could not offer this incredible opportunity to local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. The event’s success proves that great things happen when business leaders, mentors, and community partners come together to lift others up.

Even as the confetti settles, the EBRC team is already planning for next year’s competition. The Pitch has become a space where entrepreneurs can test their ideas, receive professional feedback, and connect with a network of supporters who genuinely care about their growth.

For new or growing business owners, this event is your invitation. Whether you’re just sketching your idea on a napkin or ready to scale your operations, The Pitch offers the kind of encouragement and visibility that every small business needs at some stage.

This year’s competition was not just about one winner. It was a showcase of local talent, and creativity. But Burkes Produce Market’s story reminds us of something bigger. Strong communities do not happen by accident. They are built every day by local businesses that care deeply about the people and places they serve.

So, here’s to Burkes Produce Market, proving that passion and partnership can make growth a community affair. And here’s to the next generation of dreamers who will take the stage next year, ready to pitch, connect, and plant the seeds for a thriving future.