In preparation for Founders Fund's Live Pitch Competition Finale, 10 exceptional founders and business leaders were selected as pitch coaches to help our 10 finalists perfect their pitches.
Ten pitch coaches were paired with our ten finalists and provided feedback to their assigned finalist on the following three categories: confidence, clearly defined business purpose, and traction/future opportunities.
The role of these pitch coaches was vital to the success and confidence of our funding finalists, and for that we extend our deepest gratitude!
Meet Gregory MacDonald - Founder of Bathorium
Taking a bath to some may be a nightmare, to others it may just be a daily routine - but for Gregory Macdonald, it is a way of life. After spending years and countless dollars on mediocre bath products, Greg founded Bathorium and set out to create premium bath soaks that not only give a unique experience for the bather but also a product that the user can benefit from both physically and mentally.
Meet Makini Smith - Founder of A Walk in my Stilettos
Makini is an award-winning entrepreneur and proud founder of A Walk in my Stilettos. As a mindset coach, she has created a successful business focused on personal development and helping women thrive. As a certified Proctor Gallagher consultant, Makini is also a podcast host, 4-time author, and social media influencer.
Meet David Gaylord - Founder of Bush Balm
In 2016 David co-founded a natural skincare brand focused solely on the bikini line. In 4 years Bush Balm has sold over 50k products and have built a multi-million dollar business. David's business responsibility is to grow the marketing side of the business, expand our customer base and raise funding. In any month you can expect to see Bush Balm spending over $50k in digital advertising, utilizing email and sms automation and launching new products.
Meet Vivian Kaye - Founder of Kinky Curly Yaki
Vivian Kaye is the CEO of KinkyCurlyYaki, business & empowerment expert, keynote speaker, TV/Podcast personality and all-around dope lady. Vivian started Kinky Curly Yaki, a premium natural hair extensions brand, in 2012, and in the first year, I hit 6-figures. Vivian reached the next figure in 2016 and continues to run it as a 7-figure business while travelling, sharing her story internationally, and helping others reach their goals.
Meet Kristi Soomer - Founder of Encircled
In 2012, Kristi launched Encircled. From the beginning, Kristi was committed to building a brand that she could be proud of. She wanted you to have clothing that felt as good as it looked, and also did good in the world. Clothing from Encircled is ethically-made from the finest, softest, most flattering eco-friendly fabrics, and designed with intention, function and exceptional fit so that you can live your life without compromise.
Meet Christine Yu - Founder of Beyond The Truth
Christine comes from a multi-faceted background with over a decade of professional and start-up experiences in cross-industries from fashion to technology. Christine's focus is on Business and Mindset Strategies and her goal is to help you breakthrough challenges/barriers and bring you back on the right path towards success and happiness.
Meet Jennifer Singh - Founder of She's Note Worthy
Jennifer Singh is a former TV reporter turned entrepreneur, speaker and CEO of She’s Newsworthy Media. Before entrepreneurship Jennifer worked in the Canadian media industry for over 15 years as a reporter, producer and writer for CTV, CBC, Global and CP24. She has been featured in the Toronto Star and on Global News and CTV speaking about imposter syndrome, women in business and the need for more inclusive marketing. Jennifer was also featured in a national campaign for International Women’s Day in partnership with Mercedes-Benz Canada and Pink Tartan.
Meet Dr Ashley Margeson - Founder of Cornerstone Naturopathic Inc
Dr. Ashley believes that your health should work for you, not against you. Her undergraduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Acadia University ignited her dedication to advocating for sustainable food security and her unwavering belief in the power of social change. Following her graduation she went on to obtain her Doctor of Naturopathy degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. She has since amassed an impressive portfolio of certifications from the top clinicians across North America, ensuring she is using the best available evidence, research and technology to serve her patients.
Meet Amanda Baker - COO of Tease Tea and Founders Fund
Amanda leads the Tease Tea team in marketing, logistics and social impact. When she's not supporting the team or planning the next quarters campaigns, you can find her curled up with a good book and a big mug of Midnight Mint to calm her after a busy day of meetings.