FLAGSTAFF, AZ (KYMA, KECY) – A local businesswoman takes her business idea to the moon and earns status as a state finalist.

Summerton College’s Annabella Dianda recently pitched her business, Mama Bella Hot Sauce, at Moonshot’s 4th Annual Pioneer Pitch Statewide Finals in Flagstaff last week.

Representing Yuma County, Annabella competed against nine other entrepreneurs from rural Arizona.

The top prize of $10,000 in cash went to Pin Drop Travel Trailers. Viewer favorite Duek Ranchers received her $5,000.

Programs like Moonshot focus on reaching underserved rural areas to obtain additional resources and tools for entrepreneurs.

“The presentation was very innovative and inspiring,” said Crystal Mendoza, director of the Center for Small Business Development at Arizona Western College. “All of us at SBDC want to help local entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses, so we are very excited to bring Moonshot to Yuma County next spring.”

This program provides businesses with immense opportunities for networking and exposure.