S.H.E. Pitch, which recently completed its fourth year, is a competition for local female entrepreneurs in both the “idea stage” and “growth stage.” The event, hosted by the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce with sponsorship by The City of Frederick, offers participants an opportunity to present their business ventures in a shark-tank style event to win substantial cash prizes, gain publicity, and forge new networking connections.
Year after year the program continues to not only empower entrepreneurs but also make a significant impact on our local economy. Since the program’s inception, we have proudly watched seven past SHE Pitch winners go on to launch or grow a business within The City of Frederick limits.
Below we catch up past-standout and current local business owner Allison Jachowski to find out ‘Where SHE is Now.’
Odin Crossfit
2021 Growth STAGE Winner
How has your business grown or changed since SHE Pitch?
Since SHE Pitch in 2021, we have doubled our business, hired full time staff, and expanded our offerings for our members.
Personally I have accepted a new role as a Business Development Coach, working with CrossFit Affiliate Owners around the world to create world-class businesses. This role has allowed me to have more impact within the CrossFit community and help other owners improve their business practices and grow to change more lives.
What’s next for your business?
We plan to continue our current growth, add additional wellness services, and change more lives within our local community.
Looking back, what was the most valuable take away from your SHE Pitch experience?
The most valuable take away from the SHE Pitch experience was being able to bring what we do to more people. We were able to gain more exposure within the local community and show how we are changing lives every day.
Advice to fellow entrepreneurs
My number one piece of advice for anyone is to know what your mission is and WHY it is so important. If you don't know your mission and why you show up everyday, then it becomes really hard to see the forest through the trees. You need to be extremely intentional with everything you do. Every decision you make within your business needs to support the mission.
Are you thinking about starting or growing a business?
Contact The City of Frederick’s Department of Economic Development at business@cityoffrederickmd.gov to learn more about the resources that can help!