By the Bay Botanicals receives Downtown Award at Carroll Biz Challenge November 2014

By the Bay Botanicals received a special award called The Downtown Award at the 2014 Carroll Biz Challenge put on by the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce.  The Carroll Biz Challenge is a unique entrepreneurial competition that is a little bit like Shark Tank and a little bit American Idle.  This year 27 entrepreneurs applied to win the big grand prize that includes a check for $5,000.  Of those applicants, 7 finalists got a chance to pitch live in front of 4 judges - all Carroll County business owners on November 20, 2014.  The Grand Prize winner went to Run Moore a new retailer along Westminster's Main Street that specializes unique techniques to help fit runners with the right shoe whether it is for an ultra marathon or simply jogging around the block.  By the Bay Botanicals won the Downtown Award - new to this years competition.  It is open to all applicants who have opened (or planning to open) a small business along any Carroll County Main Street and has not been open more than one year.  "It was an honor to get this award as it really shows people truly get "you" and what your business is all about," states Michelle, owner of By the Bay Botanicals.  "I hoped to get the award, but never thought I would get it. When the winner was awarded in video form, I just sat back and enjoyed the show until it zeroed in on the front of my shop.  I caught myself saying out loud - 'that's me!' and yes I did cry.  I cried because the first thing I thought of is my hard work has really paid off.  Not only have I started my dream business, but am getting recognized for it too."  To learn more about the event as well as the other prize winners, judges, sponsors and the like visit https://carrollbizchallenge.startuplocal.biz.