By now most of the civilized world has seen an episode of "Shark Tank." An entrepreneur is launching a new business or posing the next great invention to a panel of judges, hoping one of them will approve of the concept and invest in the venture.

What if you had the chance to do that locally?

Guess what? You will!

For the last two years, a committee of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Council (MOVRC) has organized a business pitch contest called "Launchpad" (our version of "Shark Tank.") We are proud to share that Year 3 is upon us!

How can Chamber members get involved in Launchpad?

#1 Sponsor the event
We already have several area businesses and state-wide organizations who have expressed interest in helping to sponsor the pre-launch and prize award, but additional support is greatly appreciated to fully cover the costs. The chairperson for the Launchpad is Jody Murphy, executive director of the Pleasants Area Chamber of Commerce and he can be reached at (304) 684-9909 if you would like more details about sponsorship.

#2 Offer in-kind services to the Launchpad winner
Accounting, legal, marketing, IT - just to name a few of the areas that a new entrepreneur might need assistance with while launching their new business.   Send me a note if you would like to offer in-kind services to the winner and we will add your contribution to the prize list!

#3 ATTEND the event!!
You will receive $10,000 in "Fuel Points" to give to your favorite entrepreneur that night and those points will help decide who presents later that evening. Plus you might make some great connections for your business and ultimately to help support the entrepreneurial spirit in the Mid-Ohio Valley.  So mark your calendar now and plan to join us that evening.

We are hopeful this Launchpad initiative will encourage and entice entrepreneurship and grow new business in the area. So start preparing your materials and practice your 5 minute pitch - you could be the next contestant for the MOVRC Launchpad!...  More >><< Less