Nina Creole – Wins First Pitch Competition
Nina Creole Shines at the 2nd Annual Elevate Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition
Lafayette, LA—Nina Creole has done it again! At the 2nd Annual Elevate Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition, hosted by the Lafayette Economic Development Authority and Opportunity Machine, Nina Creole proudly secured second place among eight talented finalists. This achievement highlights not only the innovative spirit of our business but also our commitment to delivering unique and flavorful Creole cuisine to our community.
A Platform for Local Entrepreneurs
The Elevate Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of innovation and determination. Designed to give local entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their businesses, the competition provides valuable feedback, visibility, and networking opportunities. This year’s panel of esteemed judges included Nate Moore, founder of Moore Consulting; Holly Howat, founder of Beacon Community Connections; and Kristi Anderson, chief strategy officer for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Participants had four minutes to pitch their business ideas, followed by a three-minute Q&A session with the judges. The competition was fierce, with ideas ranging from education services to health and wellness.
Nina Creole: Creole Cuisine with a Twist
Nina Charles, founder of Nina Creole, wowed the judges and audience with her innovative food truck concept. Established in 2021, Nina Creole has become a local favorite, offering a unique twist on Creole cuisine. Our menu features a variety of stuffed egg rolls, along with vegetarian, vegan, and kid-friendly options—ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
What started as a passion project during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly turned into a thriving business. After gaining popularity on social media, Nina Charles took a bold step by leaving her corporate job to focus on her culinary dreams. This journey even led to an appearance on the Netflix show Is It Cake?, further solidifying Nina Creole’s reputation as a trailblazer in the food industry.
What’s Next for Nina Creole?
With the $2,500 award from the competition, Nina Creole plans to enhance its operations by investing in shipping and stocking capabilities. This investment will allow us to reach more customers and share our signature Creole flavors beyond the Lafayette area.
We’re also thrilled to announce that Nina Creole will be participating in this year’s Acadiana Eats Festival on Saturday, October 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the West Village Development in Scott. This event is a perfect opportunity for fans—old and new—to enjoy our delicious offerings and celebrate the vibrant food culture of Acadiana.
Celebrating Local Success Stories
Nina Creole’s second-place win is a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs. Competitions like Elevate Entrepreneurship not only showcase the incredible talent in our area but also provide the tools and resources needed for small businesses to thrive.
We are honored to be recognized alongside other inspiring businesses like Above the Limit, the first-place winner specializing in educational services, and BeLuxxe Health & Wellness, the third-place winner focusing on holistic spa services. Together, we represent the resilience and creativity of Lafayette’s entrepreneurial community.
Join the Nina Creole Journey
As we continue to grow, Nina Creole remains committed to bringing joy and flavor to every bite. We’re grateful for the support of our customers, community, and the organizations that believe in our vision. Follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest offerings, events, and news. Let’s keep elevating Creole cuisine together!
