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HART — Entrepreneurs from across the region will have the opportunity to compete for a $5,000 startup grant during the Start Garden 5×5 Pitch Night on Monday, Aug. 25, at Birch & Blossom, 112 E. Main St., Suite 3.
The event, which begins at 5 p.m., is presented in partnership with Start Garden and hosted by the Chamber Alliance of Mason County, Lake County Economic Development Alliance, Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, Oceana County Economic Alliance and The Right Place.
Modeled after the popular “Shark Tank” television show, the competition will feature five entrepreneurs, each presenting a five-minute pitch using five slides before a panel of judges and a live audience. The winner will receive a $5,000 grant to support startup expenses such as equipment, inventory, marketing, prototyping or early operations.
The event builds on the success of the Pitch North competition, expanding entrepreneurial opportunities throughout Oceana, Lake and Newaygo counties.
“By building on the success of Pitch North and partnering with Start Garden, we are creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs to take the next step,” said Curtis Burdette, executive director of the Oceana County Economic Alliance. “This event brings together capital, visibility and community support to help turn great ideas into real businesses across our region.”
Funding for the event includes support from the Oceana Community Foundation, which awarded a $2,500 grant to help deliver the program and engage entrepreneurs. Additional sponsors include Safe Harbor Credit Union, ITC, Lake-Osceola State Bank, West Shore Community College Foundation, Annabelle Acres Vineyard & Winery and Birch & Blossom.
The 5×5 format originated in West Michigan during the early 2010s and gained popularity by giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to present business ideas before a live audience, with funding awarded immediately following presentations.
Kristi Lucas-Zimmerman, economic development director for the Chamber Alliance of Mason County, said the program creates opportunities for entrepreneurs in rural communities.
“Events like 5×5 Pitch Night help ensure that creative ideas and business potential can thrive in our smaller communities,” Lucas-Zimmerman said. “It gives people confidence that they can start and grow something right here.”
Start Garden Director Laurie Supinski said the organization is excited to bring the program to the region.
“We are thrilled to partner with regional leaders to bring 5×5 Pitch Night to rural West Michigan,” Supinski said. “There is incredible energy and untapped potential in communities like Oceana County, and this event is about creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow.”
Mark Kraus, economic development director of the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, said the regional collaboration strengthens support for entrepreneurs.
“Entrepreneurship does not stop at county lines,” Kraus said. “This partnership allows us to pool resources and create a stronger, more connected support system for innovators across West Michigan.”
Jodi Nichols, executive director of the Lake County Economic Development Alliance, said the event also provides entrepreneurs with valuable exposure.
“This event brings energy and attention to local entrepreneurs while creating meaningful connections with mentors, investors and peers,” Nichols said. “That visibility can make all the difference in moving an idea forward.”
Applications for the competition open Wednesday, July 29. Community engagement is one factor used in selecting finalists, and applicants are encouraged to share their submissions and build support for their business ideas. Voting will conclude Aug. 25.
The event is open to the public. Registration is available through Start Garden’s website.
Start Garden is a west Michigan-based investment and entrepreneurial support organization that provides funding, mentorship and programming for early-stage businesses.
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