This is me, about 30 seconds after my pitch to MassChallenge Houston. It's just a sliver of my face, but I think you can see the relief there!
It was such an honor to be chosen to pitch to MassChallenge. MassChallenge is non-profit a business accelerator program that operates in the U.S., Israel, Switzerland, and Mexico. It was founded by two consultants from Bain & Company during the 2008 economic recession who "envisioned a creative, inspired society in which everyone is empowered and has the resources to maximize their impact."
Startups who are ultimately chosen to participate in the accelerator program get hands-on support from top mentors and experts, access to MassChallenge's corporate partners, tailored workshops, and a chance to win cash prizes.
This is MassChallenge Houston's first year and nearly 300 startups applied. Cat in the Box was one of 79 companies selected to pitch their businesses to a team of experts. 25 companies will ultimately get to participate in the program in Houston this summer.
Dawn LaFontaine is a lifelong animal lover who always seems to have a little pet hair in her keyboard. Her blog, Kitty Contemplations, helps cat guardians better understand and care for the special beings they share their lives and homes with. Her cat-products business, Cat in the Box, sells beautiful, well-made, and award-winning products that she designed to meet the biological needs of cats.