In October 2025, Khalil Saadiq, a student at Lawson State Community College, won third place at the Magic City Classic Business Pitch Competition in Birmingham. He received $3,000 for his business idea. The event was organized by the Alabama Collective and featured students and recent graduates from HBCUs in Alabama. Nearly $20,000 in prize money was awarded.
The competition began with a booth-style round where participants presented their business ideas. Finalists moved on to a live finale judged by industry professionals. Saadiq said the Alabama Collective and Lawson State offered support, including coaching and workshops, which helped him improve his pitch.
Saadiq’s business, DeeDee’s Driven Detailing, is a mobile car care service. He named the company after his late aunt, who was a cosmetologist and entrepreneur. The business focuses on quality service, convenience, and community involvement…