The Start Here Pitch Competition: Where Big Ideas Take Center Stage in Cookeville
Are you curious about the incredible business ideas being developed right here in the Upper Cumberland? Do you want to see the next generation of startups in action? Join us at the Start Here Pitch Competition on November 20th at 37 Cedar in Cookeville to witness the energy, passion, and innovation of aspiring entrepreneurs as they pitch for the chance to win cash prizes – and to secure a spot in front of regional investors.
What to Expect
The Start Here Pitch Competition is an evening that brings together the best and brightest in our local and regional startup ecosystem. Doors open at 5:30 PM, and guests are encouraged to come early, grab a seat, and enjoy a complimentary taco bar before the competition kicks off at 6:00 PM. Admission is free, but we do ask that attendees register ahead of time to secure their spot.
Six finalists will take the stage, each given a few minutes to present their business ideas to a panel of judges, and – here’s the best part – the audience gets a vote! In addition to the panel’s selections, attendees will have the opportunity to help choose the winner, making it a community effort to support promising startups in the region.
Why Attend?
Not only is this an opportunity to witness the entrepreneurial spirit in action, but the Start Here Pitch Competition is also a way to connect with other business enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and community members. You’ll get an inside look at real-world pitching, see what it takes to win over an audience and a panel of seasoned judges, and learn about the exciting ventures growing here in the Upper Cumberland.
What’s up for grabs? The stakes are high for our competitors! The top startup pitches will walk away with cash prizes – $10,000 for first place, $5,000 for second place, and $2,500 for third – as well as an invitation to pitch to the Upper Cumberland Angel Investors Fund. For many of these entrepreneurs, this could be the game-changing opportunity that launches their business forward.
Who’s Competing?
Our finalists represent startups from a mix of industries and backgrounds, but they all share one thing in common: a commitment to growing their businesses in or around the Upper Cumberland region. These entrepreneurs have bold visions, and they’re prepared to share their plans for growth, impact, and success with our community.
Each competitor has met specific criteria to qualify, including:
- A plan to reach $1M in revenue or to add that within three years
- A goal to expand their team by at least 5 employees within three years
- A regional or national market focus
- A strong connection to the Upper Cumberland area – either having started here, planning to start here, or hoping to relocate here.
Join Us on November 20th!
If you’ve ever wondered how startups get their start, what it takes to pitch a winning idea, or how new businesses are contributing to local economic growth, this is your chance to find out!
The Start Here Pitch Competition is more than a contest; it’s a celebration of the Upper Cumberland’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. It’s free to attend, and all you need to do is register ahead of time to secure your spot.
Date: November 20, 2024
Location: 37 Cedar Ave, Cookeville
Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Event Starts: 6:00 PM
Don’t miss your chance to support these talented entrepreneurs, vote for your favorite pitch, and get inspired. We’ll see you there!
