So, what does it take to be one of Birmingham’s next big things?
Five finalists hope to find out as they compete in The Big Pitch presented by PNC next weekend. Organized annually by REV Birmingham, The Big Pitch is a Shark Tank-style competition designed to provide technical assistance, mentoring, exposure and capital to Birmingham’s up-and-coming lifestyle and creative entrepreneurs.
REV caught up with one of the five finalists ahead of the competition.
Q: Describe your business/service.
A: Sidekicks is a lifestyle brand looking to build a community that is willing to share, learn, and connect. We sell premium footwear and apparel that isn’t easily found in the Birmingham area.
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: We’ve always known we wanted to build something from the ground up, and we’ve known we wanted it to be part of the resurgence of Birmingham. We feel that what was happening in Birmingham was a key inspiration in the dream that is Sidekicks. We’ve also always been interested in spending time with new people, and what better way to meet and engage people through one of our mutual interests. That mutual interest being sneaker culture and all that comes with that.
See Sidekicks pitch their next big thing!
When: Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
Where: The Gallery at The Pizitiz Food Hall (across from Upswing)
Q: Who’s your mentor? What have you learned from them so far?
A: Jacquie Fazekas. We’re still cultivating our relationship with her and have weekly calls. She’s helped us become more organized leading up to The Big Pitch.
Q: Outside of the prize, what are you hoping to gain from participating in The Big Pitch?
A: Knowledge gained from the service providers. One example is learning about the legal side and what all we should look for in our lease.
Q: What do you want people to remember most about your business?
A: Being a place that provided a creative space for artists, musicians, and other brand and content creators. We want to offer sneaker enthusiasts a place to find fresh and independent streetwear and a place to share, learn, and connect.
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