Enter the Start Here pitch Competition

A Tennessee Pitch Competition Built for Businesses Ready to Grow

Stop pitching over coffee.
Pitch it for $10,000.

The Start Here Pitch Competition brings entrepreneurs and startups to Cookeville, Tennessee to compete for $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second, and $2,500 for third.

Before you ever take the stage, you’ll work with The Biz Foundry’s business coaches to sharpen your pitch and get ready for the room. The competition also puts founders in front of the Upper Cumberland Angel Investors Fund and other members of the region’s entrepreneurial community.

Applications close Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Pitches start at 5:30 PM on November 18, 2026 at 37 Cedar Restaurant & Bar.

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Giving businesses in Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland region EXPERT Business Coaching & top-notch coworking space.

We're a non-profit organization offering free & affordable resources and business coaching to entrepreneurs at all stages of business.

We Get It — Business Is Hard

Feeling stuck? You’re not alone. We’ve been there, too

We believe you deserve access to the resources you need to start & grow a successful business.

You’re Not Alone

We’re entrepreneurs who help other entrepreneurs. Let’s get you unstuck and moving forward.

What We Offer

People Love It Here

I love this space! As a local freelancer, it’s so nice to have a reliable place - that isnt just a coffee shop or restaurant - to stop in and do my work! I love the classes and other resources provided by the Biz Foundry and CANNOT wait to start working in the McMinnville and Sparta locations, too!

The Biz Foundry team is doing some phenomenal work. If you’re an entrepreneur or think you MIGHT be an entrepreneur, the team of mentors and leaders at the Biz Foundry need to be the first folks you talk to!

3 easy steps to launch & grow your business

1. Book a meeting

Schedule a Start Here Meeting with one of our business coaches to talk about your business.

2. Talk to a coach

Get expert advice from a seasoned business coach in-person or via zoom.

3. Launch & Grow

Get the advice, direction and connections you need to launch and grow your business.

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Enter the Start Here pitch Competition

A Tennessee Pitch Competition Built for Businesses Ready to Grow

Stop pitching over coffee.
Pitch it for $10,000.