'Gorge Pitch Fest' Small Business Competition Offers Chance to Win Funding and Exposure
By Cole Goodwin
Wasco County Innovation Initiative partners have launched a small business pitch competition that invites entrepreneurs in Wasco, Sherman, and Hood River counties to showcase their business ideas and compete for funding and exposure. The competition aims to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation and provide a networking opportunity for participants.
Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their business idea in front of a panel of judges comprising of industry experts and investors, and the chance to win a grand prize of $7,000 in funding. Additional cash prizes will be awarded for second place, third place, and the audience's favorite pitch.
"We are excited to host this competition as a platform for small business owners and entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and take their business to the next level," said Gregory Price, Director of the Columbia Gorge Small Business Development Center.
To participate, applicants can complete an application outlining their business idea, including a description of their product or service, target market, and growth strategy. Selected applicants will be invited to pitch their idea in front of the judges at a live event, where they will have the opportunity to answer questions and receive feedback.
The application is available here: https://forms.gle/EpgZCbT5EceSd6md6
The application deadline date is May 17, 2023, and selected applicants will be enrolled in pitch coaching provided by Columbia Gorge Small Business Development Center and Oregon Startup Center.
The live event, Gorge Pitch Fest, will take place on June 14, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Granada Theatre in The Dalles.
Wasco Innovation Initiative partners involved in this event include Mid-Columbia Economic Development District, Columbia Gorge Small Business Development Center, Port of The Dalles, Columbia Gorge Community College, Business Oregon and the Wasco County Economic Development Commission. This event is hosted partially thanks to a grant received from Business Oregon Rural Opportunities Initiative and is supported by a large list of sponsors.
This event is also accepting additional sponsors to provide funding for the cash prize. Free tickets can be reserved here for those interested in attending.
Learn more at mcedd.org/gorge-pitch-fest or email planning committee chair Carrie Pipinich atcarrie@mcedd.org.
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