Pitch competitions are a thing here. Don’t be shocked because we need them to be a thing here for host of good reasons, but most of all because they help generate good creative energy for our region.
If you have watched on TV any of the many Shark Tank-styled pitch shows, then don’t expect that made-for-ratings drama fueling us here. (That TV stuff is made to keep you locked to the screen.)
For those around you who have attended, say, a Start Garden 5x5 Night or any of the Michigan Women Forward’s Dolphin Tanks, then you know these are exciting and interesting nights of new ideas being given the platform to pitch their idea for funding.
On November 26, 2018, a new pitch competition will launch when the first
Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab (MVE) Pitch and Showcase competition debuts at the GVSU Richard M. DeVos Center’s Loosemore Auditorium.
Those pitching on this night have completed the MVE-Lab — a 10-week accelerated program offered to U.S. veterans and military families to give them the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to develop and launch a business.
These participants have trained alongside fellow aspiring veterans developing business acumen, connecting more meaningfully to the Grand Rapids entrepreneurial community, and developing access to funding.
This inaugural entrepreneurial talent event will be presented to a panel of judges who will be distributing nearly $15,000 in cash prizes. And the best part is that the audience gets to select who will take home $2,000 via the people’s choice award.
The event is free and has complimentary parking at the Fulton Lot and Seward Ramp.
Please
RSVP here to attend.