Press Release Summary: North Carolina Small Business Center Network Startup Showdown
Date: September 18, 2026
Location: Raleigh, N.C.
The North Carolina Small Business Center Network (SBCN) has wrapped up its inaugural Startup Showdown, which drew over 300 applicants and showcased 17 finalists. The competition culminated in three winners:
- First Place ($30,000): Dan Spangler, founder of Rinse-A-Poo.
- Second Place ($20,000): Victoria Gadbois, founder of Victorious Wellness.
- Third Place ($10,000): Phil McNutt, founder of The Gilded Lantern.
The event featured intensive business training, a “Shark Tank”-style pitch competition, and public voting, ultimately distributing a total of $60,000 in unrestricted startup funding.
The awards ceremony, attended by notable state leaders, emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship in fostering innovation and economic development in North Carolina. Participants received mentorship and networking opportunities aimed at advancing their business concepts.
Key Quotes:
- Juan Austin, Wells Fargo: “Entrepreneurs are driving innovation and economic growth… the Startup Showdown is creating new opportunities.”
- Dan Spangler: “The Startup Showdown was worth every hour I put into it… That funding gets Rinse-A-Poo from prototype to production.”
The SBCN continues to provide resources for entrepreneurs across North Carolina through its 58 community colleges.
For more details, visit SBCN.
Contact Information
Source: North Carolina Community College System
Images and further details: Press Release Link
