What’s happening: The deadline for nascent and aspiring entrepreneurs to apply for the Pitch North entrepreneurial pitch competition is fast approaching. Entrepreneurs living in Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana counties are encouraged to apply to the pitch contest, which awards cash prizes and the exposure granted by the contest itself.
What it is: Now in its fifth year,
Pitch North has awarded more than $51,000 in cash and prizes to 25 finalists since its launch in 2019. Entrepreneurs submit their pitches online before a committee of local leaders review and score submissions. Five finalists will be selected to pitch their business ideas in front of a live audience and judges panel at the Pitch North event, which is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 7, at the Michigan Research Station in Oceana County.
Why it is: The contest intends to offer funding support for promising business ideas in the community while also providing exposure for the burgeoning entrepreneurs. As the contest website reads, “Pitch North is an idea pitching competition created to spark change and promote entrepreneurial progress in some of West Michigan's more rural counties.”
Who’s behind it: The Pitch North competition is hosted by economic development group The Right Place, Inc. in partnership with the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, Oceana County Economic Alliance, and Lake County Economic Development Alliance.
How to apply: Online submissions for the competition must be entered by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, June 28. Entrants must live in Lake, Newaygo, or Oceana county and be at least 18-years-old. The contest is both free to enter and attend.
The Right Place has provided a video to help entrants with tips for successful applications, a video of which
is available online.
Got a development news story to share? Email MJ Galbraith here or send him a tweet @mikegalbraith.
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