Salina Community Economic Development Organization
The 5th Annual Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge was held on April 1, at the Kansas State University Salina campus, where entrepreneurs competed for $16,000 in prize funding awarded to the top five finalists.
The event was presented in partnership with the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, Salina Community Economic Development Organization, Kansas State University Salina, Kansas Wesleyan University, The Temple, Network Kansas / VentureDash, and Start Up Salina.
The annual prize fund—totaling $16,000 each year—is generously donated by Bennington State Bank and JRI Hospitality, Inc.
This year’s program opened with remarks from Guy Walker, President of Blue Beacon, Inc., who welcomed attendees and shared reflections on his grandfather, Charlie Walker, the event’s namesake. A successful entrepreneur and mentor, Charlie Walker dedicated his life to helping others launch businesses and build careers in the Salina community. He passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy of encouragement and opportunity for future innovators.
Eight contestants advanced to this year’s competition after submitting a comprehensive 12-page business plan and a three-minute elevator-pitch video.
During the live event, each finalist delivered a seven-minute presentation outlining their business concept, followed by a five-minute Q&A session with a panel of five local judges
List of winners:
1st Place ($6000)
HiCo. - Liam Deniau-Young
Fresh from his 1st place win at the Saline County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge in early March, HiCo took 1st place at the 2026 Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge. HiCo delivers an all-inclusive service model that equips guests with premium gear, hike-friendly meals, and expert guides to access secluded backcountry trails that don’t appear on mainstream maps. Designed for flexibility and customization, HiCo offers both public expeditions for shared adventure and private bookings for travelers seeking a personalized pace and complete privacy.
Guests can choose their preferred trail and trip length, ranging from two-night treks to five-night expeditions. Every experience includes high-end equipment, professional navigation, and the support needed to explore remote terrain with confidence.
2nd Place ($4000)
The Maker’s Shop - Rindi & Matt Guldner
Rindi and Matt, the second-place winners, plan to use their award to launch The Maker’s Shop in downtown Lindsborg. Designed as both an art supply boutique and a hands-on creation space, The Maker’s Shop will offer a thoughtfully curated selection of quality art materials alongside an inviting environment where creativity—and a few joyful messes—are encouraged.
With support from their pitch-challenge win, Rindi and Matt aim to create a community hub that inspires connection and imagination. In addition to retail offerings, The Maker’s Shop will feature project kits that promote creativity, emotional well-being, shared experiences, and time spent making something meaningful together.
3rd Place ($3000)
This Moment Mobile Events LLC - Kellen & Yessenia Womochil
Kellen and Yessenia, the third-place winners, are poised to expand their growing event business, This Moment Mobile Events LLC. The company currently offers a digital photo booth, a vintage photo-booth camper, and an audio guest-book experience—unique services designed to help guests capture greetings, memories, and meaningful moments at special events.
Rooted in the belief that every celebration deserves a personal touch, This Moment Mobile Events focuses on creating opportunities for people to connect and leave with a keepsake that reflects the spirit of the occasion.
With support from their pitch-challenge award, Kellen and Yessenia plan to add a mobile bar built from a renovated Cushman truck. This new feature will enhance their ability to deliver memorable, customizable event experiences and marks an exciting next step in the company’s growth.
4th Place ($2000)
Casa Dolores Café - Angelica Carrillo-Hernandez
Angelica, the fourth-place winner, is preparing to bring Casa Dolores Café to life as a mobile coffee business inspired by her belief that “where there is coffee, there is love.” With her award, she plans to launch a high-quality, mobile coffee trailer featuring creative, culturally inspired beverages that reflect her heritage and passion for community.
Angelica aims to have the mobile café operating within the next six months, offering a space where customers can enjoy coffee made with heart, celebrate culture and tradition, and connect with one another. Her vision is to create a welcoming gathering place—one cup at a time.
5th Place ($1000)
Bobby’s Bees - William Hieronymus
Bobby’s Bees, a small but growing honey producer based in Salina, began its journey in 2025 with just a few hives and a first-year harvest of 48 pounds of honey. With their fifth-place finish, the team behind Bobby’s Bees is ready to expand their operation and increase production.
The award will help Bobby’s Bees add more hives and explore new varieties of honey and honey-based products. Their goal is to bring more locally produced, high-quality honey to the community while continuing to grow a business rooted in sustainability, craftsmanship, and Kansas pride.
Also participating in this year’s competition were Bonnie Alvarado of Forever Florals by Bonnie LLC; Sade Wright of Organized Chaos Consulting LLC; and Drew White of White Buffalo Meat Co. Each brought forward a unique business concept, contributing to a strong and diverse field of entrepreneurs.
For updates and details about the 2027 Charlie Walker Pitch Challenge, interested individuals can join the Start Up Salina Facebook group or visit the Salina EDO website for resources and announcements.