FREMONT – The start of a new local business initiative, “The Pitch,” was held Thursday at the downtown MoonShine Nightclub, kicking off a networking effort hosted by the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation.
The event was also a contest and an opportunity for small business entrepreneurs and individuals to create their own business plans. Participants met with local business and development leaders Andrea Gibbons, Beth Hannon, Miranda Hoffman, Bob Gross, and others.
The overall goal of The Pitch is for a panel of judges to select the top candidates and then have those participants pitch their businesses to the public this summer. From there, the public will judge who will win a grand prize package of a one-year free rent location in Fremont and other services, totaling up to $17,000.
Some of the participants of the first event for The Pitch had ideas ranging from board games, decór, an authentic Mexican restaurant and bakery, to IT and marketing.
Participants present business plans, gather information
At the meet and greet Thursday, “contestants” were given opportunities to talk about their business plans, gather information, and meet with other hopefuls.
Terra State Community College is partnering with the SCEDC on this project. The sponsors are working together to engage, develop, and accelerate entrepreneurship throughout Sandusky County.
At the launch event, contestants received a packet loaded with information for the eight-month contest that helps each participant work on their business model, financial projections, and company overview, so that in August the competitors can confidently pitch to the judges.
Later, the finalists will get to pitch to the public, and they will then be able to cast their vote and help each business bolster their seed fund.
This event is an opportunity for businesses to not only get the resources they need to start a successful business, but it also allowed the SCEDC to build connections within the community and help local entrepreneurs — who are on the fence about starting a business — put their best foot forward.
Resources are available for entrepreneurs
The Pitch sponsors are looking for an entrepreneur with a clear business plan, someone who is hoping to grow. Andrea Gibson, from the SCEDC, said The Pitch is a great opportunity due to all of the resources provided to entrepreneurs and small business owners. It can aid some businesses get certified where needed.
Another resource came from Stayce Fowler with Northwest Ohio Minority Business Assistance Center. Her agency aids to certify minorities, women, and veteran-owned businesses to help elevate career prospects and also loan opportunities.
Fremont Mayor Danny Sanchez said the SCEDC has been focusing on collaboration and trying to listen to the needs of the public and the community from small businesses.
The mayor, speaking of The Pitch, said “there’s going to be several people who are successful from this opportunity.”
From the resources, networking opportunities, and the seed money earned through the public event, each business has the opportunity to accelerate its growth and reach.
Participants have until May 31 to create a plan and financial summary and officially enter the contest online. Contestants will have several other events along the way until the public competition on Aug. 5.