Shark Tank event empowers local groundbreaking innovators

Have you ever wanted to pitch your next big idea on Shark Tank? SEDCOR’s Launch Mid-Valley initiative brought the thrill of innovation and investment to Salem on August 21st with their Pitch Willamette event.

Seven ambitious startups pitched their business to a panel of eight hungry investors. Two of those startups, Revino and Stiira, walked away with a $20,000 check and invaluable connections to key investors. Both businesses fill a unique need in their global markets and are looking to grow fast and far.

Revino produces refillable glass wine bottles, minimizing the enormous waste from disposable bottles in the industry. Their bottles save wineries money and establish a practical, sustainable alternative to single-use bottles. Production continues to expand as they secure larger scale contracts with more and more wineries.

Stiira’s HR tech platform makes leave administration a breeze, streamlining a highly complicated process. Like Revino, they’ve already secured critical deals across the nation and are building momentum for significant expansion.

Both startups expressed the value this event offered their business, beyond the check. “The visibility that comes with pitch events like this is wonderful,” said Adam Rack, cofounder of Revino. Casey Rillahan, cofounder of Stiira, explained, “We sell nationwide, but it feels really good to have additional traction in our hometown.”

SEDCOR partnered with venture catalyst Mike White to gather eight investors from the Willamette Valley. As an entrepreneur himself, White’s involvement in the event comes from a desire to mitigate common barriers entrepreneurs face. “I know firsthand the importance of having access to mentorship, funding and a supportive community,” White said. Pitch Willamette was designed to provide those fundamental resources and develop working partnerships for effective growth.

Seven startups were selected to pitch out of 20 total applicants. Ventures range from energy efficiency software to hot sauce, leave management interface to reusable wine bottles. “The businesses being pitched at this event are at the forefront of innovation in their respective fields,” White said. “What’s exciting is the diversity of ideas and the potential they have to disrupt traditional markets.” SEDCOR sought for-profit applicants who are in the early growth stage with the ambition and potential to scale in a national or international market. 

White explained that investors are in it “not just for financial returns, but because they see the potential for real impact. They’re motivated by the chance to support innovative solutions that address local and global challenges.” This event provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to land big deals with investors who care about more than just the bottom line. 

These investors have built their lives and careers in this community, making them personally invested in the local economy and business environment. “By backing startups, they’re helping to create jobs, foster innovation, and build a strong, more resilient local economy,” White said.

Pitch Willamette offered the public an opportunity to witness entrepreneurial talent and grit in this Shark Tank style event. “It’s a fun and exciting way to get the community involved in seeing how local businesses get their start, as well as seeing investors and business leaders supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Naureen Khan, marketing and communications manager for SEDCOR.

Pitch Willamette serves as a catalyst for growth in the Salem business community. Event participants are revolutionizing their markets. As White said: “successful pitches today could lead to the next big breakthrough tomorrow.”