Epworth Awards $5K to The Sandbox in Momentum 5x5 Contest

A food concessions business, The Sandbox, won the Momentum 5x5 Business Pitch Competition on Tuesday following presentations from five finalists. The Epworth Assembly and Epworth Church Association provided the $5,000 prize to the winner as a way to give back to the community and spur business growth here.

In addition to a cash prize, the Sandbox will also receive in-kind gifts from Epworth, including advertising and business representation at Epworth events.

Since taking over operation of the beach stands at Stearns Park beach this year, The Sandbox offers a variety of sliders, fresh-cut fruit, charcuterie trays, french fries, milkshakes and more. The business also has a merchandise shack, where T-shirts, jewelry, candles and sugar scrubs are sold – most of which are sourced by other local businesses. Near the concession stands, picnic tables, umbrella tables and cornhole boards add to the beach vibe. 

With the prize money, business owners Zach and Lara Webster explained they plan to add seating options, shade sails, pergolas and commercial umbrellas to provide a more secure and enjoyable dining experience for locals and visitors alike at their south beach location.

Other finalists included Common Grace Birth Support, Gracious Giving, Love Ludington Tours, and Smith Shire Essentials. Each contender had five minutes to pitch a new business idea and/or tell how they would use the prize money at their business.

The Momentum 5x5 Pitch Competition is an annual event administered by the Chamber Alliance of Mason County, held in partnership with the Epworth Assembly and Epworth Church Association.