Hy-Vee Inc. awarded $50,000 to minority- and woman-owned businesses during the Hy-Vee OpportUnity Inclusive Business Summit at the University Club in downtown Moline, Ill. During the pitch competition, 14 companies from across the Midwest presented to a panel of judges for the chance to win a small-business grant from Hy-Vee. A Hy-Vee committee selected the participating companies from more than 70 applications. Joy Hankins, founder of the Joy of Curls in Des Moines, received the grand-prize award of $30,000. Allison Strickland, founder of ATStudy Buddy in North Liberty received $5,000 for placing first in the innovation and technology category. Sensiil Studios in Des Moines and Desserts by Design in Ottumwa also received cash prizes for their businesses.