A planned house for homeless veterans and a shop that sells ecofriendly products were the big winners at the seventh annual Spark Tank Pitch Fest, while a gluten-free treat purveyor and positivity-promoting lifestyle brand also benefited.

The event, which was held at Lanna Coffee Co. on Nov. 14, was put on by Fresno Pacific University’s Center for Community Transformation (CCT) and was aimed at promoting business projects aimed at helping solve social/community issues. Patriot House and GD.STWRD were each awarded $5,000, while WorkGnome received $1,000 and Give Culture and Tower Vegan Treats each walked away with $750.

“I felt the event was inspiring. The room was packed with people who believe enterprise can serve the common good,” said Randy White, CCT executive director. “Multiple community leaders attended as well as financial institutions that are committed to impact investing.”

In addition each team will receive scholarships to the FPU/CCT Social Enterprise Academy in January. Open to the public, the Academy offers a four-module curriculum taught by Fresno Pacific faculty and practitioners that features mentorship and the chance to network with potential funders.