'Catalyst Academy' awards $40K to 8 entrepreneurs

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation celebrated the "Catalyst Academy Demo Day" on Thursday evening, June 25, at Helen Haddad Hall, awarding $40,000 in startup funding to eight entrepreneurs who completed the six-month business incubator program.

Made possible through funding from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) Community Collaboration Fund, Catalyst Academy equips early-stage entrepreneurs with the tools, coaching, mentorship, and community needed to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses at no cost to the founder.

Under the leadership of Director of Entrepreneurship, Courtney Rushton, participants worked through the Leanstack curriculum, validated their business models, had regular coaching workshops and individual meetings, and refined their ventures. 

Starting in January 2026, fourteen entrepreneurs representing 13 businesses participated in Level 1 of Catalyst Academy. The journey concluded at Demo Day, where eight entrepreneurs representing seven businesses competed for $40,000 in startup funding.

Judges considered both the quality of the business opportunity and each participant's engagement and progress throughout Catalyst Academy.  Based upon these evaluations, participating businesses were awarded stipends to support the continued growth and development of the ventures.

Here are the Catalyst Academy Demo Day prize recipients:

$8,000 Awards

• Elizabeth Tape - Todah Medical
• Jessica Bowman – J.E.T. Acres Family Farm

$6,000 Awards

• Maria Wilkins and Julissa Saenz – Pink Cheese Tacos & Bakery
• Vincent Edwards – TheraFi

$4,000 Awards

• Bri Wolterman – Illuminate Photo & Design
• Amani Stewart – Noble Network Solutions
• April Wolka – EarFinder

Catalyst Academy is an initiative of the entrepreneurial arm of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Catalyst, designed to support entrepreneurs across Columbus and the surrounding region by providing education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program helps founders reduce risk, validate business ideas, and build companies positioned for long-term success.

Entrepreneurs interested in learning more about entrepreneurship resources are encouraged to contact the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce.