Spark Thomasville Celebrates Entrepreneurs at 2025 Pitch Competition

On November 25, 2025, Spark Thomasville marked an impressive evening dedicated to entrepreneurship by celebrating the graduation of the Fall 2025 Signature Entrepreneur Training Program alongside the 2025 Spark Tank Pitch Competition. This event highlighted the community’s commitment to fostering economic mobility and opportunity, under the theme “From Dreams to Reality.”

The evening commenced with an Entrepreneur Expo, where participants showcased their innovative products and services, allowing attendees to network and support local businesses. A poignant moment followed, as Pastor Israel Blake led a dedication to the late founding Board Member Nathaniel Abrams, Jr. and entrepreneurs Kentrella Shoats and Chynekqua Lott, whose contributions continue to inspire Spark’s mission.

Empowering Local Entrepreneurs

During the event, Spark Board Member Jay Flowers emphasized the importance of investing in entrepreneurs who often face significant challenges. “I’ve been an entrepreneur,” he stated. “It’s hard starting from scratch when you’ve been left behind… thank you to each one of you that’s here to support our entrepreneurs.” His words resonated with the audience, highlighting the supportive community surrounding these emerging business leaders.

The entrepreneurs delivered compelling pitches on the Spark Tank stage, showcasing their growth and readiness to enter the market. Their preparation was bolstered by Spark’s training programs and access to affordable capital through the Spark Alumni Loan Fund, managed by InvestTVL and supported by Albany Community Together (ACT).

Serving as a judge for the evening, ACT Founder and Executive Director Dr. Thelma Johnson commended the cohort’s efforts. “Spark’s entrepreneurs are extraordinary,” she noted. “Several are truly finance-ready, and all demonstrated a strong grasp of their numbers and business goals.” Johnson’s assessment underscored the effectiveness of Spark’s financial workshops in enhancing entrepreneurs’ understanding of essential business concepts.

A Night of Recognition and Achievement

The ceremony also recognized several standout entrepreneurs with special awards. Marcus Paytee Jr. of Power 4 Ease Electric was honored as the Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Cohort, while DeBorah Warren of Care-Apy Coaching & Events received the Spirit of Community & Mentorship Award. The Resilience in Entrepreneurship Award went to Candiece Jackson of Candy’s World Hair & Nail Salon, showcasing the diverse talents within the community.

Following the awards, graduate Anthony Rauls shared his experiences from the program. “My experience in the Spark cohort was truly impactful,” he said. “It helped me grow as a business owner, tighten up my systems, and build real confidence in what I’m doing.” Rauls’ reflections highlighted the transformative nature of the training provided by Spark.

DeShay Williams, Spark’s Executive Director, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and reflected on the organization’s significant progress. “From 2019 to 2024, the community helped Spark graduate 70 entrepreneurs,” she said. “In 2025 alone, we graduated another 70. One year equaled the impact of the previous five years combined.”

Williams elaborated on the initiatives that contributed to this growth, which included five tailored cohorts designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and the community: the Business Finance Essentials Series, Tax Preparation Assistance, Construction Cohort, Childcare Provider Business Training, and the Signature 12-Week Program. She concluded, “When we live the Spark mission together, transformation happens.”

This remarkable event not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the collective effort to enhance economic vitality in Thomasville. By investing in local entrepreneurs, Spark Thomasville continues to lay the groundwork for a thriving community.