Defy Ventures partnered with the California Institution for Women (CIW) June 25 to host a business pitch competition and graduation. The event held at CIW in Corona celebrated the achievements of incarcerated participants, known in the program as Entrepreneurs in Training (EITs), who completed the entrepreneurship and career readiness curriculum.
Community volunteers from a wide range of professional backgrounds served as judges, mentors and coaches as participants presented original business concepts they spent months developing. The day showcased entrepreneurial thinking as well as the confidence, professionalism and resilience participants had cultivated throughout the program.
While the Business Pitch Competition recognized outstanding presentations, one memorable moment came from the camaraderie among the finalists.
Before the final round, the top five participants gathered in a huddle to encourage one another, choosing collaboration over competition. Afterward, they asked to take a photo together — reflecting the trust, respect and community they built.
That spirit extended beyond the finalists. After the competition, one participant who did not advance to the final round, approached the volunteer judges. She asked how she could strengthen her business and continue improving. Her willingness to seek feedback embodied the growth mindset Defy strives to cultivate. It also demonstrates the meaningful relationships formed between participants and community volunteers.
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