Spotlight on Westbrook’s Entrepreneurial Spirit: Paper City Pitch Contest!
DDW is thrilled to present Westbrook’s first-ever Pitch Contest this year, and we’re calling it Paper City Pitch. If you have seen any competition reality shows like Shark Tank, you already have an idea of what pitch contests are.
Keep reading to learn more about Paper City Pitch and how you can get involved!
What is a Pitch Contest?
A pitch contest provides a platform where entrepreneurs present their business concepts in a short format to a panel of judges in the hopes of winning funding or a cash prize. Because they also offer a fun, inspiring, and fast-paced way for the public to get a glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship, they have become increasingly popular across the US.
There have even been quite a few in Maine as well, like Top Gun, LaunchPad, GreenLight, Big Gig Pitch-off, Maine Startup Challenge, All Ideas Pitch Contest, and Buoy Maine Pitch. You may be wondering why DDW is offering one.
The short answer is that for Discover Downtown Westbrook, it is important that there are multiple avenues to supporting small business ownership in Maine. A pitch contest is an accessible way for Westbrook businesses to secure funds and gain valuable exposure. There is no cost to participate, and it is open to entry. Why not try it here in Westbrook?
What About Westbrook?
The city’s growth and diversification over the past two decades have reflected a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, making it a great location for the Paper City Pitch. Westbrook has a rich history as a paper mill city.
The event is intended to pay homage to its industrial roots while cementing its reputation as an inclusive, business-friendly community. In launching Paper City Pitch as part of DDW’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem project, the thinking behind the event is that the lasting effects of a pitch contest go beyond the financial aspect.
Pitch contests provide an opportunity for young business owners to define their ideas and sharpen their communication skills by having to present their vision and value proposition in a concise way. Another benefit is that entrepreneurs receive important feedback and a chance to make connections and gain mentorship.
Ultimately, as an event, they bring people together to support and celebrate local entrepreneurs. The public can see their peers taking a shot at fulfilling their dreams. What’s more fun than that?
How Can I Participate?
Discover Downtown Westbrook invites you to be part of this exciting event, whether as a participant, supporter, or spectator. Mark your calendars for April 30th and join us at Mast Landing Brewing as we champion the future of Westbrook-based businesses!
Six finalists will be chosen to present and there will be $8000 worth of cash prizes to be given away, $5000 first place, $2000 runner-up, and $1000 People’s Choice. If you have a Westbrook address and are a budding entrepreneur or a local business that needs a little extra push, we encourage you to apply.
To be eligible, complete the online entry form, including a short video presentation, by March 31st. Together, let’s witness Westbrook’s creativity come to life at the Paper City Pitch. We hope to see you there!
