Lillie Schwier
Staff Writer
Catapult hosted its fifth Lakeland Entrepreneurship Awards on Jan. 16. The nonprofit’s event recognizes local companies that have left a significant impact on Lakeland’s entrepreneurial community and have achieved exceptional accomplishments.
It also serves as a networking opportunity for Catapult startups. This year, Jeff Hoffman, a global entrepreneur, speaker, CEO and founder of Booking.com, gave the keynote speech. Four awards were given, recognizing five businesses.
People’s Choice Award
The People’s Choice Award, chosen by the Lakeland Catapult community, was given to Moore Juices. Owners Jaci and Mason Moore launched Moore Joices in the summer of 2023. Their company’s mission is to provide high-quality, fresh-pressed juice that benefits one’s mind and body. According to their website, their juice is 100% natural and provides health benefits.
Catapulter of the Year
The Catapulter of the Year Award goes to new and successful Catapult companies that exemplify leadership and motivation to grow. Bandidas Bake Shop and Ready Chapter 1 tied.
Bandidas Bake Shop first appeared as a pop-up at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market in 2021 as a Latin-inspired bakery. Gabi & Gio Favilli-Vigoreaux, owners of Bandidad Bake Shop, prioritize community and inclusion through their food. Their ever-evolving menu is currently accessible at the Lakeland curbside market.
Catapult has served as a crucial stepping stone in their journey of starting their company. However, they are looking to expand, with their new shop opening soon on Edgewood Drive. They have appeared in publications such as Cherry Bombe, Saveur, Bon Appetit and more.
Ready Chapter 1 is an online platform for writers that connects them with book publishers. Ready Chapter 1’s mission is to “Create useful tools for intrepid writers and discover stories that change the world.” Writers are promised to grow their skills, to learn more about the publishing industry, and to get connected and network with experts. They do this through two main resources: an online story curriculum that prepares a story for the market and a “Peer Critique Platform” that assists writers in specific parts of their story.
Entreprenuer of the Year
In the 1960’s David Lyons founded what is now known as Saddle Creek Logistics Services. Lyons was known for his entrepreneurial mindset and his willingness to take risks to make his vision come to life. The David Lyons Entrepreneur of the Year goes to a company with remarkable business, innovation and risk-taking skills. Not only has this brand been successful by exemplifying these entrepreneurial attributes, but they are also passionate about supporting the community. This award went to Mike & Mike’s Desserts, owned by Mike Mitchell.
Mitchell’s goal was to create cupcakes as good as the treats his mom made him as a child. His cupcakes are dairy and egg-free, being safe for those with dietary restrictions. Their products are currently sold at Publix.
Entrepreneur Champion
The Entrepreneur Champion is a Lakeland company or person passionate about Lakeland entrepreneurs. This year, the Lakeland Economic Development Council and Abbas Jaffar, the vice president of business development, were awarded for their guidance and mentorship of new businesses. The LEDC recruits new businesses to Lakeland, helps existing industries expand and builds the community tax base. Catapult started as an experiment led by the LEDC. To this day, they support the growth and success of the nonprofit.
These companies have earned accolades for their dedication, creativity, expansion and leadership within the Lakeland entrepreneur community. Their achievements stand as a testament to how Catapult continues to foster and amplify the growth of these startups.
