Local Business Owner Shay Searcy Wins $10K at the Impact Program Pitch Competition

On December 3rd, Brensha “Shay” Searcy, owner of Be Browed Etcetera Permanent Makeup Studio & Academy, the only one of its kind in Cleveland, won the top prize of $10K at the 22nd Small Business Impact Program Showcase. Jay.R Fogle, owner of 123 Appz, won the second-place prize of $5,000.

Held at MAGNET’s newly renovated headquarters and community innovation center, Shay was among seven local entrepreneurs who capped off their 12-week business education experience by presenting to a live audience and panel of judges.

Launched in 2016, JumpStart’s flagship Small Business Impact Program is designed to accelerate the growth of the Cleveland-based small businesses that drive local economic impact through job creation, purchasing power and neighborhood revitalization. The program runs three cohorts a year and combines tailored advising with in-depth business training to equip entrepreneurs for success.

“It’s inspiring to see these entrepreneurs onstage, applying what they’ve learned in the program and clearly articulating the future of their companies,” says Lauren Smith-Petta, Director of JumpStart’s Educational Services.

“We are always working to improve and evolve our education programs,” she continues. “This year, we piloted the Impact+ Program for growth-oriented entrepreneurs to harness the power of technology, and in 2025 we’re excited to be able to offer significant increases in the Impact Program’s prize money.”

While Shay earned first place and Jay R. took second, the five other Impact Program graduates didn’t walk away empty-handed – they each received $2,500 to grow their businesses:

JumpStart is currently accepting applications through January 13, 2025, for the 23rd cohort of the Small Business Impact Program. You can learn more about the Impact Program, including application details and eligibility requirements, here.

About JumpStart Inc.
JumpStart is a nonprofit entrepreneur support organization that equips entrepreneurs with the skills,
services and support they need to succeed.