The first-ever Melamoon event, a collaboration between the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE Coalition) and Black Ambition, concluded with six Black entrepreneurs competing for $200,000 in non-dilutive capital — the largest total equity-free cash prize awarded to Black founders in Canada.
Held at Toronto’s Globe and Mail Centre on Sept. 27, the event brought together 50 founders for a two-week business sprint to refine their ventures, network and prepare for scaling. Six finalists pitched their ideas before a panel of judges including Regina Gwynn, co-founder of Black Girls Talk Tech; Michael Hyatt, investor and former Dragons’ Den judge; Erik Moore, managing director of Base Ventures; and Tanya Walker, commercial litigation lawyer and bencher with the Law Society of Ontario.
Jamaal Bond of Evitavonni Construction Group won the $100,000 grand prize for his Bluetooth-enabled hard hat, which is designed to improve safety and communication on construction sites.
Biola Oluwajuyigbe, founder of Healx Foods Inc., received the $50,000 second prize. Her company offers nutrient-rich, culturally inspired food products that support wellness and healing.
The third prize of $25,000 went to Chevon Riley, founder of NORM, a clean skincare brand focused on performance, transparency and inclusive beauty standards.
Melamoon Prize Winners with Minister Rechie Valdez (center), CEO of Black Ambition Felicia Hatcher (left), and CEO and Co-Founder of FACE Coalition Tiffany Callender (right). (CNW Group/The Federation of African Canadian Economics)
Dr. Phyllis Pobee, founder of GeneLean360, received the People’s Choice Award. Her personalized wellness platform uses genetic insights to help users optimize their health and fitness. The award was sponsored by Black Founders Network and FoundHers by Pitchbetter.
“Melamoon officially broke ground for lift off at Toronto’s Globe and Mail Center on September 27 where six finalists from a cohort of 50 founders took the stage to compete for $200,000 in non-dilutive capital — the largest total amount of equity cash prizes awarded to Black founders in Canada,” the FACE Coalition said in a statement.
Rechie Valdez
“Melamoon was not just a competition — it was the start of a legacy,” the statement continued. “With support from key partners and sponsors including the Government of Canada, Interac, TD Bank, Now Toronto, BDC, Black Women Talk Tech; and expertly curated by creative and branding powerhouse NA&CO, the event set a new standard for inclusive entrepreneurship, proving that when capital meets culture, the possibilities are limitless.”
Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism) Rechie Valdez delivered closing remarks at the event.
Drawing from her own business experience, Valdez told the finalists: “Entrepreneurship demands full commitment and passion.” She encouraged them “to embrace boldness and clarity” in their business pursuits.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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