The 8th annual Athletic and Outdoor industry celebration on Thursday, December 7 at Terrazign offered the A&O community a chance to make new connections, hear new voices and learn about up-and-coming companies in the industry.

The event featured the release of a new industry report, a pitch competition presented in partnership with Oregon Angel Fund (OAF), and a vendor marketplace with six A&O brands, all women and/or minority-owned, selling their products.

The event drew nearly 200 people, who voted for their favorite pitch among six “In the Running” finalists, all women and/or minority-owned startups. Winner Stacy Gose, founder of women’s workwear company Tougher, will have the chance to pitch at OAF’s January meeting for an investment between $100,000 and $3 million.

A&O Celebration