November 6, 2023 — STartUP Northshore announced that Kinkz, a natural hair care line based in Slidell, Louisiana, is the winner of a $60,000 prize package of cash and services following a live showdown between the company and three other finalists in the first-ever NSpire Startup Slam pitch competition. Set against the backdrop of the historic Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts in Downtown Hammond, on the evening of November 3rd, over 70 attendees celebrated entrepreneurship and innovation over food, drinks, and live music before witnessing the four finalist startups take center stage.
“Gratitude fills our hearts as we embark on this exciting journey, leveling up our business with the invaluable resources from NSpire Startup Slam,” said Alana Scott, Founder & CEO of Kinkz. “The experience of being surrounded by incredible, competitive founders has been nothing short of inspiring, propelling us toward our limitless potential.”
A panel of five business leaders from across the Northshore and the Greater New Orleans Region served as judges and scored each contestant on categories including concept, business model, market, traction, team, and commitment to and potential impact for the Northshore, with Kinkz emerging as the ultimate
winner.