Terre Haute food entrepreneurs sought for pitch competition
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Launch Terre Haute is searching for the next wave of entrepreneurs for its annual Launch P@d Pitch Competition. This year’s event will have a focus on food entrepreneurs who could win a space for their startup inside Haute City Center.
Launch P@d was created a year ago with the goal of giving a local startup a location to set up shop.
The first competition was focused on a space in downtown Terre Haute, but this year’s event is targeting food-related entrepreneurs and restaurant startups because of the location, which is a former Cinnabon spot inside the mall.
“This opportunity is a win-win for the community and Haute City Center,” General Manager Kim Ingalsbe said in written remarks. “The current vacant food/beverage spot will bring new business and will give an opportunity to an aspiring entrepreneur.”
Launch Terre Haute says the rent for the 597-square-foot space has been “significantly reduced” for the winning startup. The pitch competition’s winner will be responsible for utilities and any additional business-related costs.
Participants in the competition will receive access to resources from Launch Terre Haute and the West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center to refine their business plans, establish financials and practice pitch strategies before giving their final pitches to a group of local business leaders.
“Launch P@d creates the opportunity for entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to reality with the support of the local business community,” said Launch Terre Haute Chief Operating Officer Jessica Cox. “The winner will have a built-in support system during their start-up process.”
Those interested have until October 11 to submit for the competition.
The winner of the inaugural pitch competition last year was Laken Richardson, who opened Snapped: A Selfie Experience in downtown Terre Haute.