Treynor, Iowa-based TS Bank awarded a total of $20,000 to two local nonprofits earlier this month as part of the bank’s annual REV pitch competition.
The ceremony was Nov. 2 at Hoff Family Arts and Culture Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Small business owners pitched for the opportunity to win $20,000 to grow their business. Underwood, Iowa-based trucking company Gillett Hauling, which launched in April 2022, secured $15,000, while OCookieOs won $5,000.
Gillett Hauling, which launched in April 2022, plans to use the $15,000 to help rebrand semi-truck graphics, upgrade air seats, purchase a third semi and hire future drivers.
“These funds will help expand our reach as well as positively impact our region’s infrastructure development by delivering the equipment needed for timely jobs,” said owner Clayton Gillett. “I’m excited for the future.”
OCookieOs makes gluten free cookie-donuts. Founder Nichole Bartlett created the company to find gluten-free dietary options for her son, Vincent Rissell, who now also works for the company.
The Council Bluffs-based startup plans to use the funds for product analysis to improve their food labeling, to purchase an automatic band sealer and packaging trimmer as well as create custom branding to increase delivery options.
More than 43 REV applications were received from July 1 through Sept. 10. A third-party selection committee later determined which five finalists would pitch to a panel of judges. Contestants were evaluated on different parts of their businesses.
Omaha-based pasta sauce producer Humbl Roots secured a $500 cash prize by being named the People’s Choice Award winner.
REV has awarded $138,000 to local small businesses since it was launched in 2015. Since 2020, TS Bank and economic development organization Advance Southwest Iowa have worked together to run the competition and host the event.