Friday, November 6, 2026
Temperatures in Long Beach are cooling down — but not for local businesses in the Chamber of Commerce, as more than a dozen have been competing in its business pitch challenge for a $10,000 grant.
Inspired by ABC’s hit reality television series “Shark Tank,” business owners had the opportunity to demonstrate, in no more than five minutes, how the funds would help them grow. At the conclusion of each presentation, owners answered questions from chamber members in the audience.
The Sept. 28 chamber meeting featured four contestants, with a showdown between competitors in the creative arts space, including Kate Judge Patton, owner of Long Beach Sewing Studio. Judge Patton, who holds a graduate degree in art education from Columbia University, is looking to develop a multigenerational sewing and creative studio in Long Beach.
Judge Patton said the studio would offer services including beginner through advanced sewing classes, garment making, open studio time, special events, programming for children and adults, marine/canvas repair and other community-specific classes.
“I know we are all looking for ways to shift our time away from screens and meet new people,” she said. “The Long Beach Sewing Studio satisfies those requirements.”
The business is seeking a permanent commercial location and would use grant funding for sewing machines, cutting tables and professional equipment.
LeighAnne Tucci, from Shoreline Stitchery, is looking to open a storefront on Park Avenue as early as December 2026. Shoreline Stitchery, Tucci said, would address a lack of nearby specialty needlepoint, knitting and craft stores local to Long Beach.
Tucci said she has spent most of the last six years teaching needling artists varying in experience. By working in other needling shops, Tucci said, she projected close to $394,000 in first-year gross revenue and $210,000 in net operating profit.
“The grant money will go towards inventory and getting our doors open,” Tucci said. “We’re ready to say hello to Long Beach.”
The business challenge finals will take place during the chamber’s monthly meeting on Oct. 19 at Bright Eye Beer Co.
It will be judged by Felicia Nicholas, the owner of Felicia’s on East Park Avenue; Dan Monteforte, owner of Swingbelly’s, Blackdoor Burger, among others; former city council member Leonard Remo, and Yaryl Gonzalez, public affairs manager for National Grid.
