Last Thursday, January 9, the Austin Young Chamber hosted the Austin Fast Start pitch competition for Austin based, early startups in the Consumer Packaged Goods industry. For this competition, Consumer Packaged Goods was defined as items used daily by consumers that require routine replacement or replenishment. Products may be food, beverage, apparel, jewelry, toys, tools, or anything you could imagine being sold at your favorite brick-and-mortar or online retailer.

Applications were accepted in November, judges representing the small business, startup, and CPG communities scored the applications in December, and four Finalists participated in the pitch competition last week.

The four Finalists included Manna Muffins, Remane, Steamm Espresso, and Tynie Nail Polish. Each finalist took the stage at the H-E-B Digital and Favor Eastside Tech Hub with five minutes to pitch their business idea to both our judges and an audience of over 100 for a chance to win $2,500 in cash plus $4,000 in in-kind prizes.

After four presentations and four rounds of exceptional Q&A, the scores came in. The Austin Young Chamber is honored to announce the winner of the Austin Fast Start for CPG… Steamm Espresso!

Pitched by President Kevin Newsum, Steamm Espresso is the world’s first ready to drink bottled espresso. Steeped in cacao for a smooth chocolate finish and loaded with antioxidants, Steamm Espresso is crafted to provide energy and focus while honoring your coffee ritual.

Congratulations to all the finalists on their truly excellent pitches and business ideas, and congrats to Steamm Espresso!