Kirkland's Mayor Curtis celebrates startup competition winners and community engagement

The Kirkland Pitch Competition held on April 9, 2025, showcased innovative business ideas and celebrated local entrepreneurship in Kirkland, Washington. The event, organized by the city’s economic development office, featured a variety of startups and established businesses competing for funding and recognition.

One standout presentation came from Heidi Huckleberry, which offers eco-friendly diorama kits for children aged 5 to 11. The kits encourage creativity and outdoor exploration, allowing kids to collect natural materials and build miniature worlds. The founder highlighted the company’s growth, having designed six different scenes and sold 300 units in just 18 months. With additional funding, they plan to scale production and expand their retail presence, aiming to sell 10,000 units within five years.

The competition also included a “People’s Choice” award, where attendees could vote for their favorite pitch via a QR code. Mayor Holly Curtis expressed gratitude to the participants and the city council for their support, emphasizing the importance of fostering local businesses.

The event concluded with awards for the best startup and established businesses, each receiving $5,000 in funding. Amita Asmita Niska won in the startup category, while Jason Leon took home the prize for established businesses. The evening celebrated not only the entrepreneurial spirit of Kirkland but also the community's commitment to supporting local innovation.

Overall, the Kirkland Pitch Competition highlighted the city's dedication to economic development and provided a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to share their visions and gain valuable support.