PALMERSTON – The Town of Minto and LaunchIt Business Exploration Centre announced the winner of the 13th annual PitchIt! Minto Business Competition: Feel Alive Home Junction, founded by Palmerston’s own Jennifer Ferreira-Rudinac.
Created in 2012, PitchIt! aims to foster entrepreneurship, support local business growth and promote resources available in Minto.
“Over the years, the competition has grown into a cornerstone event for emerging entrepreneurs in the region,” officials stated in a press release.
This year’s contest drew five entries, with three advancing as finalists to compete for over $19,200 in cash and prizes.
Feel Alive Home Junction stood out with its innovative wellness offerings.
The business is a holistic health destination where Ferreira-Rudinac, a registered massage therapist with over 20 years of experience, provides therapeutic treatments, while her husband Nick serves nourishing beverages and curates a health-focused boutique.
A key highlight of their offering is Ferreira-Rudinac’s easy-to-use castor oil wrap kits, designed to provide natural relief for muscle, joint, and soft tissue discomfort.
“Participating in PitchIt! helped me re-evaluate and refine my original business idea. The training I received gave me practical tools and a clearer vision for the future. It’s been a real game-changer,” said Ferreira-Rudinac. “To any entrepreneur considering it – I say go for it. You never know where it might lead.”
Finalists of the 2025 PitchIt! Competition include:
- Feel Alive Home Junction, Jennifer Ferreira-Rudinac, Palmerston;
- Owl’s Nest Holistic School, Carly Ogryzlo, Rural Minto; and
- ACE Landscaping, Jake Armstrong, Harriston.
All finalists received customized prize packages, thanks to the continued support of generous community sponsors.
“We’re fortunate to have such a dedicated network of local businesses and organizations that rally behind PitchIt! each year,” said Minto director of economic and community development Belinda Wick-Graham. “Each of the finalists brought forward inspiring business concepts and a clear vision for success.”
Jamie Doherty of the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation added, “These entrepreneurs demonstrated incredible passion and creativity. Their business models were well thought out and promise long-term value for the community. They’re not just launching businesses – they’re helping shape the future of Minto’s economy.”
Longtime judge Kristel Manes, executive director of the Business Centre Guelph Wellington, echoed that sentiment: “We saw three exceptional entrepreneurs pursuing their passions to create businesses that will have a lasting, positive impact locally. Congratulations to all!”
The PitchIt! Minto Business Competition returns each spring. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to build, refine, and grow their business ideas.
