Past Contest Winners

Washington Vision Therapy Center Wins 2011 Enterprise Challenge

Washington Vision Therapy Center won New Vision’s 2011 Enterprise Challenge and received a check for $10,000.  The specialized eye clinic is located in Yakima.  Dr. Ben Winters is a developmental optometrist who specializes in providing vision therapy to clients with a particular focus on helping kids.  Winters and his staff help patients correct vision problems that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lens alone.  As the business grows, Winters plans to open more local clinics and eventually expand to other areas as well.

Hop Central Brewing Company placed second in the contest and received a check for $5,000.  Hop Central will be a new microbrewery in downtown Yakima.  The company plans to handcraft uniquely hop centered beers which choice hops for the Yakima Valley.

Milt’s Original Gourmet BBQ Pellets took third place in the contest and won $2500.  The Grandview-based company manufacturers flavor enhanced barbeque pellets made from tree fruit wood and food processing wastes.  The company sells one and twenty pound bags of pellets through farm stores, barbeque dealers and other outlets.

Tieton Farm & Creamery Wins 2010 Enterprise Challenge

Tieton Farm & Creamery won New Vision’s 2010 Enterprise Challenge and received a check for $10,000.  The farm and creamery is on a 21-acre farm located in Tieton.  Tieton Farm & Creamery combines responsible farming methods and artisanal cheese making techniques to produce small batches of high-quality cheeses, such as fresh chevre, feta, provolone and grill-able Halloumi.  Owners Lori and Ruth Babcock want to expand the business by developing a farm-oriented bed and breakfast on the property.

Cascade Animal Care Products took third place in the contest and won $2500.  The company specializes in total care for animals.   Started last year, the company is quickly positioning itself as Yakima’s experts in animal care – dogs, cats, horses or livestock.  Products include antibiotics, vaccinations, dewormers, special supplements and retail supplies to keep animals healthy and happy. The company plans to expand its retail and wholesale sales over the next two years.