The Greater Freeport Partnership is proud to announce the winners of its 2026 BASE Camp Pitch Competition, the culminating event of its Business Academy for Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BASE) Camp program.
After weeks of intensive coursework and business development training, three local entrepreneurs were selected as top finalists and awarded cash prizes to support the growth of their businesses:
- First Prize – Sarah Hutmacher, Flowerflour
- Second Prize – Vince Brooks, GIA Travel
- Third Prize – Maria Chambers
BASE Camp Pitch Competition award money was supported by the Illinois Farm Bureau Rural Development grant. Pitches were judged by Nick Gill, president of Union Savings Bank; Joy Sellers, alderperson at large of the City of Freeport; and Steve Buss, president Village of Lena and owner of Advance Technologies.
The program is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to succeed in today’s competitive market. Through a six-class series spanning 12 weeks, participants gain hands-on experience in business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and more.
“Participating in BASE Camp has been a fun learning experience, igniting my potential and equipping me with the tools to conquer new challenges. Each session brought the opportunity to learn and collaborate with a diverse group of local business professionals, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The encouragement and support from mentors and peers alike played a crucial role, pushing me to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace new ideas. As I reflect, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for the future, ready to apply what I’ve learned to make a positive impact in both my personal and professional life,” said Pitch Competition winner Sarah Hutmacher
The BASE Camp program continues to play a vital role in strengthening the regional economy by supporting new and growing businesses. By fostering entrepreneurship, the Partnership is helping to create jobs, expand local services, and build a more resilient business community.
“From the first BASE Camp session to the final pitch, we saw real transformation. Participants didn’t just build businesses—they built confidence and clarity in who they are as leaders and entrepreneurs. I always say you are your brand, and that came through in every presentation. We’re incredibly proud of all our participants and thrilled to recognize our winners for their hard work and dedication,” said Partnership Membership Director Mercedes Joyner.
The Greater Freeport Partnership is a catalyst for dynamic economic growth, fostering an inclusive environment where businesses thrive, and our community prospers. We are dedicated to nurturing new opportunities while enriching the fabric of Freeport and Stephenson County.
Captions: Back row left to right: Nick Gill, president of Union Savings Bank; Sarah Hutmacher, FlowerFlour first prize winner; Vince Brooks, GIA Travel second prize winner; Steve Buss, president Village of Lena and owner of Advance Technologies. Front row: Andrea Schultz Winter, executive director of Greater Freeport Partnership; Joy Sellers, alderperson at large for the City of Freeport; Maria Chambers, third prize winner; and Mercedes Joyner, membership director of Greater Freeport Partnership.
