Winners announced for TVFCU Idea Leap Grant

May 15, 2023

Courtney Goins,

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — The Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union (TVFCU) announced their winners for this year’s Idea Leap Grant.

Eleven entrepreneurs pitched their small business plans and expansion goals and were awarded between $10,000 and $30,000. They granted a total of $175,000.

Chattanooga Winners:

Cocoa Asante – $30,000
Simply Props – $15,000
RMJ Tactical – $10,000
The Local Juicery – $10,000
The Professional Cleaning Solution – $10,000

Chattanooga winners

Northwest Georgia Winners:

Foundation Direct Family Care – $25,000
Baxter Dean Studios – $15,000
Inflated – $10,000

Northwest Georgia winners

Ocoee Winners:

Direct Primary Care Associates – $25,000
Biskit NV – $15,000
Rods Rockin Rolls – $10,000

This is the first time TVFCU has hosted three separate competitions for the Idea Leap Grant. Vice President of Business and Commercial Services, Tommy Nix, said this was to reach more small businesses and help stimulate economies across the counties they serve.

“Winning first place was an absolutely incredible moment,” said Ella Livingston, owner of Cocoa Asante. “This was my third year applying for the Idea Leap Grant, so it was a full-circle moment for me. I’m incredibly proud of myself and of the other amazing business owners who pitched as well.”