By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College’s Small Business Development Center hosted the 2025 Moonshot Rural Pitch Competition on July 11, bringing together some of the most innovative and passionate entrepreneurs from Graham and Greenlee counties. The event, now in its third year, continues to serve as a launchpad for local business talent and bold ideas.
Congratulations to this year’s winners:
- 1st Place – Steven Taylor (Nexus Health AI LLC)
- 2nd Place – Dominque, Mariyah, Priscilla, and Trinity Bejarano (Revive Innovations LLC)
- 3rd Place – Mindi Marshall (Oli Cakes LLC)
The United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties sponsored the event, providing more than $4,800 in cash prizes. Their support helped fund new opportunities for local entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of small business development in rural communities.
A panel of judges scored each pitch based on business viability, innovation, presentation quality, and potential community impact.
First-place winner, Steven Taylor, will advance to the statewide Moonshot Pioneer Pitch Finals in Prescott this October to compete for the $10,000 grand prize.
“We are continuously inspired by the ideas and determination of our local entrepreneurs,” said Joel Robinson, director of the Small Business Development Center at EAC. “These individuals represent the future of our community’s economy.”
For more information about upcoming pitch events or participation, contact the EAC Small Business Development Center at sbdc@eac.edu or (928) 428-8590.
About Moonshot
Moonshot is a 23-year-old Arizona-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to democratizing entrepreneurialism. The company provides expertise and support to help ambitious business concepts succeed, aiming to create jobs and foster entrepreneurial ecosystems in rural areas.
About EAC SBDC
The EAC Small Business Development Center is part of a national and statewide network of small business assistance providers. The Center’s primary goal is to provide local small businesses with the tools and training necessary for success. Eastern Arizona College funds the Center with assistance from a grant provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The EAC SBDC offers no-cost counseling to help entrepreneurs find answers to the numerous questions that arise when starting or operating a business. The EAC SBDC collaborates with the SBA, local chambers of commerce, and other community partnerships.
To take your business to the next level, contact us at sbdc@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8590.
About Eastern Arizona College
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed smart higher education destination, shaping students’ dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
EAC offers a diverse range of more than 90 degrees and certificates, including two bachelor’s degrees. The College is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program that features Arizona’s only community college marching band. EAC also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your smart higher education destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
