TUCSON, Ariz. – May 15, 2024 – The Leo Rich Theatre in Tucson is gearing up to host Pitch Black, a dynamic pitch contest spotlighting ten Black-owned businesses vying for a $5,000 cash prize. This event not only highlights the entrepreneurial spirit within the Black community but also aims to address the financial challenges faced by minority-owned businesses.

Empowering Black Entrepreneurs

Pitch Black, conceived in 2020 amidst the pandemic, emerges as a beacon of hope for Black entrepreneurs striving to secure funding for their ventures. These tenacious individuals represent a diverse array of industries, including food service, fitness, and marketing. Unlike traditional pitch competitions, Pitch Black emphasizes not only the viability of the business model but also the narrative surrounding each enterprise.

Bridging the Funding Gap

Statistics from the Federal Reserve underscore the disparities in access to capital faced by Black entrepreneurs, who are approximately half as likely as their white counterparts to secure full financing. Recognizing this glaring gap, Pitch Black offers more than just monetary support. Winners also gain invaluable assistance from entrepreneurship organizations across the state, paving the way for sustained success beyond the competition.

A Historic Milestone for Tucson

Ashley La Russa, the visionary behind Pitch Black, heralds this initiative as a historic moment for Tucson. She envisions a future where local Black-owned businesses flourish with both financial backing and statewide connections. The $5,000 prize, devoid of any restrictions, provides a lifeline for these budding enterprises, offering them the flexibility to allocate funds where they are needed most.

Uniting Communities Through Entrepreneurship

Pitch Black transcends the realm of business financing; it symbolizes a community coming together to uplift and empower its members. By offering unrestricted lump sum grants, the competition dismantles barriers that have long hindered the growth of minority-owned businesses. La Russa’s dedication to fostering an inclusive ecosystem underscores the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

Event Details

Pitch Black will take place on Wednesday, May 15, at the Leo Rich Theatre, commencing at 7:30 PM. While tickets are free, seating is limited, emphasizing the importance of securing reservations in advance. Interested attendees can reserve their spot on the event’s official website.

About the Organizer

Ashley La Russa, the driving force behind Pitch Black, is a passionate advocate for economic equity and entrepreneurship. Her tireless efforts to amplify the voices of minority business owners have earned her recognition as a trailblazer in the Tucson community. Through initiatives like Pitch Black, La Russa continues to champion inclusivity and opportunity for all.

Supporting Diversity in Business

By Paul Revere

In a society where access to capital often dictates success, initiatives like Pitch Black serve as a catalyst for change. By amplifying the voices of Black entrepreneurs and providing them with the resources they need to thrive, we not only level the playing field but also enrich our communities with diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. As we celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s Pitch Black participants, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable business landscape.

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*Joel Foster is a multimedia journalist at KGUN 9, bringing stories to life with his unique blend of storytelling and visual storytelling. Connect with Joel on Facebook, Instagram, or via email at joel.foster@ *NEWS.ORG* .com.*

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