Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, before she could even pronounce the word, Breanna Townsend had a spark for entrepreneurship. Now a 20-year-old junior marketing major at Jacksonville State University, the Fort Payne native transformed that lifelong passion into a first-place finish at the university’s annual Gamecock Entrepreneurial Pitch Competition (GEPC), hosted by the College of Business and Industry.
“I saw it as the perfect opportunity to grow my business idea into something bigger and better,” said Townsend. “I wanted to challenge myself, and this pitch competition did just that.”
Townsend impressed the judges with her concept for Copper & Olive, a modern, faith-based boutique offering affordable, high-quality fashion alongside self-care services—all presented in a warm and earthy environment. She described the space as one where customers would feel truly valued. “The judge told me he loved the creativity and clarity of my concept, the professional pitch, and the strong potential for community impact,” she shared.
As the first-place winner, Townsend received $2,500. Justin Bonner secured second place with a $1,500 prize, while Jersey Wilson earned $1,000 for third. But for Townsend, the true reward extended far beyond the cash prize.
“It gave me confidence to launch my business idea, real-world experience in business pitching, and strong connections with other young entrepreneurs within Jacksonville,” she said. “I think it is extremely important to learn how to step out of your comfort zone, especially for something that you’re passionate about.”
In addition to the GEPC, the College of Business and Industry also held an Elevator Pitch contest, challenging students to present their ideas in just 30 seconds. Participants had to grab the judge’s attention quickly, introducing themselves, their business, and its purpose in a succinct and compelling manner.
Douglas Wells, a 45-year-old junior business management major, won Best Idea and a $100 prize for his concept Diurnal, a company offering “innovative solutions for everyday problems.” For Wells, the experience offered more than just recognition. “If you are trying to start a business or create an idea, this competition helps inspire students,” he said. “I hope this competition continues to grow because it really does empower young entrepreneurs to dream big and go for it.”
Townsend also won Best Pitch for Copper & Olive in the 30-second contest, while Taylor Robinson took home the Judges’ Choice award for a promising idea that judges felt needed further refinement. Each 30-second pitch winner received a $100 prize.
Despite the pressure, Townsend embraced the moment. “The 30-second pitch was nerve-wracking but exciting,” she said. “I pitched with confidence and charisma, which is what they liked.”
Dr. Carol Heitman-Lucy, assistant professor of entrepreneurship and management, emphasized the competitions’ role in preparing students for the real-world business environment.
“These pitch competitions provide students with a learning opportunity that replicates the experience that entrepreneurs encounter when attempting to raise capital,” said Dr. Heitman-Lucy. “It allows students to demonstrate that they have acquired the entrepreneurial skillset and mindset to launch a sustainable business while also cultivating strongly desired soft skills that employers are looking for in college graduates—communication, teamwork, problem solving.”
For more information about entrepreneurship programs at Jacksonville State University, visit the College of Business and Industry’s Entrepreneurship major page.
