Callaway Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Local Entrepreneurs at 2026 Show-Me Innovation Pitch Competi
CALLAWAY COUNTY, MO — The Callaway Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the 2026 Show-Me Innovation Pitch Competition presented by The Callaway Bank on Friday, October 30, at Westminster College, celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and small business development in Callaway County.
Now in its 11th year, the competition provides aspiring and established entrepreneurs with an opportunity to showcase their business ideas, connect with community leaders, and compete for funding and prize packages designed to help launch or expand their ventures.
Participants presented their business concepts to a panel of judges, highlighting their vision, growth potential, and plans for future success. The competition continues to serve as an important platform for encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting the development of new and growing businesses throughout the region.
Winners of the 2026 Show-Me Innovation Pitch Competition
1st Place – Hitchin’ Java - Haley Kieser
Hitchin’ Java, owned by Haley Kieser, is a community-centered specialty coffee shop in Fulton, Missouri. Originally a mobile coffee trailer, the business now operates a storefront offering handcrafted espresso drinks, signature coffees, chai, and seasonal specialty beverages in a welcoming gathering space.
Haley plans to use the $3,500 prize to introduce ready-to-serve breakfast burritos and bottled lattes while upgrading equipment. Planned purchases include a commercial oven, food warmer, display refrigerator, ice machine, and supplies to launch the new products.
2nd Place – AWEN Yoga & Wellness - Michelle and Samantha Sheppard
Awen Yoga & Wellness, owned by Michelle Sheppard, is a wellness studio in Callaway County offering yoga, functional fitness, meditation, and health and wellness coaching. Through group classes, individual training, and workshops, Awen helps clients build strength, improve mobility, manage stress, and connect with others.
Awen plans to put its $500 second-place prize toward additional fitness equipment to expand strength and functional fitness offerings. Planned equipment purchases include dumbbells, a Swedish wall ladder, and a plyometric box to support group classes and individual training.
"Our Show-Me Innovation Pitch Competition is about more than recognizing great business ideas. It's about giving entrepreneurs the resources, connections, and encouragement they need to turn those ideas into reality," said Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce. "Each year, we're reminded of the creativity and determination that exist within our community, and we're proud to play a role in helping these businesses take their next steps toward success."
The Callaway Chamber of Commerce remains committed to fostering entrepreneurial growth through education, mentorship, and access to valuable business resources. Winners will work directly with Jamie Wallingford, the Chamber's Small Business Liaison, to maximize their prize packages and support the continued development of their businesses.
The Chamber extends its appreciation to the competition's sponsors, judges, and community partners whose support helps make this annual event possible.
For more information about the Show-Me Innovation Pitch Competition, contact Rebekah at marketing@callawaychamber.net.
About the Callaway Chamber of Commerce
The Callaway Chamber of Commerce is always building community for business and family. Its mission is to create a thriving culture, making Callaway County a place where people choose to live, while creating and celebrating success.
