Three innovative, Texas-based women entrepreneurs have been chosen from among more than 125 entrants as finalists in the third annual eosera Pitch Competition, the Fort Worth-based eosera Foundation announced.

The competition, which seeks to support, elevate, and empower female-led businesses in Texas, will award the top winners $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000 prizes, plus one additional $5,000 People’s Choice prize.

“We were staggered both by the number and accomplishments of this year’s women entrepreneurs who entered the competition,” Elyse Stoltz Dickerson, CEO of eosera, said in a statement.

Dickerson said that whittling down the contenders to three finalists was “an incredibly difficult process” for the semi-finalist judges, adding that “these women exemplify the innovation and diversity we aim to support” through the competition.

“Their businesses not only address unique market needs, but also demonstrate the leadership and vision of women-led enterprises in Texas,” Dickerson said.

The finalists, all founders of companies less than three years old, are:

• Meena McCullough, a physical therapist, of Body Spring in Euless. Established in 2022, Body Spring developed PressEX, a revolutionary tool and program for mobilizing fascia for improved movement, flexibility, and chronic pain relief.
• Lynn Callaway of good dirt in Austin. Launched in January 2024, good dirt offers prebiotic mushroom-based sodas with low sugar content and natural ingredients, entering a rapidly growing segment of the better-for-you beverage category.
• Addison LaBonte of Sweet Addison’s in Dallas. Founded in 2023, Sweet Addison’s says it creates gluten-free, dairy-free desserts that are both delicious and health-conscious, carving a unique niche in the better-for-you treats category with soft, thick desserts.

Pitch competition and awards

The finalists will pitch their business ideas before a panel of judges and a live audience at Fort Worth’s Kimbell Art Museum on Nov. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Kellie Raspberry, co-host of the KHKS 106.1 Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, will emcee the event.

“This contribution will make a real impact in supporting the growth of a business in our community,” said Lori S. Baldock, president of pitch sponsor Simmons Bank, Fort Worth Market, in a statement. “We understand the impact of supporting entrepreneurs, women, and Texans as they navigate the challenges in business, and that’s why we are proud to participate again.”

The eosera Pitch Competition is part of the foundation’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of female business leaders in Texas, the foundation said.

eosera Foundation Pitch Competition sponsors and finalist awards are:

• Simmons Bank, First Place $15,000
• Higginbotham, Second Place $10,000
• Satori Capital, Third Place $5,000
• iHeartIMPACT, People’s Choice $5,000
• TechFW, Pitch Coaching (Value of $1,750)
• Alumni Pitch Mentorship from Sarah Morgan (2023 Winner) and Ayo Aigbe (2023 Runner-Up)

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