Ideas Flow From Enterprize Challenge

People behind some new Vernon businesses — or those looking to start one up — are being showcased at the third annual Enterprize Challenge.

Leigha Horsfield from Community Futures-North Okanagan says they had 23 contestants enter this year’s event.

“People who are interested in either developing a new business idea or have an existing business that’s been in place for a year or less can compete. It’s a competition, so for prizes.”

Photo: Jeff McSweeney, Happy Little Camper Rentals

Ten finalists have been named, including a shop where you can buy hand-baked potatoes, and a store that sells local artisans’ wares.

“There is a woman who has a high end men’s barber shop and retail store. We have a tech business that is a predicted real estate search engine,” adds Horsfield.”

The three winners will be unveiled at a trade show and awards event at Okanagan College April 13, which the public is invited to attend.

“The prizes include web development, accounting services, legal services and logo development. The intention is that these businesses get started really well,” says Horsfield.

The latest five finalists are:

1. Jeff McSweeney, Happy Little Camper Rentals

What better way to enjoy the outdoors and quality family time than on a camping trip sans tent?! Get off the ground and get out there with Happy Little Camper Rentals’ range of self-tow RV’s and camper vans.

2. Martin Paris, Jolly Good Spudz

Forget French fries! Jolly Good Spudz cooks up baked potatoes topped with an exciting array of healthy fillings to give you a new and nourishing handmade snack alternative.

3. Mathieu Jubinville, HBAV Production Group

When you’ve got great sound and a great picture, everything’s better. HBAV Production Group provides professional audio-visual services to create custom, long-term solutions that meet clients’ needs.

4. Juanita Miller, Balanced Botanical

As a certified nutritionist and health educator, Juanita is passionate about helping women improve their health and feel beautiful. Working out of downtown Vernon’s Mustard Seed Clinic, Juanita offers a range of popular services, including nutrition coaching, skin analysis, wellness education and retreats, and even grocery store tours.

5. Pam Taylor, The Pink Spotted Goat

The Pink Spotted Goat is a storefront that gives people the chance to buy home and gift items handcrafted by local artisans and makers. With a select line of sustainability-inspired products, PSG helps families reduce waste and contribute to local charities.