Blackwater Apothecary to expand with Shore Hatchery Competition winnings

SALISBURY, Md. – A local business owner is firming up plans for her winnings in Salisbury University’s 2024 Shore Hatchery Competition. Nicole Blackwater was awarded $10,000 to enhance her store, Blackwater Apothecary, in Downtown Salisbury.

“It’s a very prestigious entrepreneur competition. We’re going to use the funding from it to expand our business in Downtown Salisbury … I hope that has a ripple effect on other businesses downtown. We hope that we’re able to expand enough to hire more employees, and more employees mean more foot traffic, and we hope that flows out to our business neighbors, as well,” Blackwater said.

How did they set themselves apart from the tough competition? Blackwater said they were the only business from the Eastern Shore that entered.

“There was a huge diversity of businesses—ones that are just starting up, ones that are established. I think what helped us the most is that we have a solid footing with our businesses here in Downtown Salisbury,” Blackwater said.

And, Blackwater has a message for other entrepreneurs who want to try their luck in the competition:

“My best advice is to keep going. It can be a struggle, especially if you’re a self-funded business, like I am. There are going to be ups and downs, but just stay true to yourself, be authentic, and be brave … I highly encourage other businesses in our area to apply to be a participant in next semester’s competition. I would be happy to lend a hand to anybody who’s interested,” Blackwater said.

Blackwater Apothecary is located at 213 West Main Street, Suite 108, Salisbury, Md. To learn more about the Shore Hatchery Competition, click here.