Calling all business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs!
The Elgin Business Resource Centre’s business plan competition, The Pitch, is back for its 10th anniversary!
The Pitch isn’t just another competition. Inspired by the hit show Dragons’ Den, The Pitch is an annual Dragons’ Den-style business plan competition in which five local St. Thomas and Elgin County businesses or aspiring entrepreneurs compete for a chance to win a grand prize package of cash and in-kind prizes to support their venture.
Since its inception in 2015, The Pitch was created and developed by the Elgin Business Resource Centre, a federally funded not-for-profit organization committed to driving economic development. The Pitch has thrived thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors.
Over the past decade, The Pitch has provided local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their innovative ideas and compete for a share of cash and in-kind prizes.
A Legacy of Empowering Businesses
The Pitch has grabbed the attention of our community and become a symbol of our entrepreneurial drive in St. Thomas and Elgin County.
Congratulations to Raw For Pets on winning The Pitch 2024! Raw For Pets has embarked on a journey to improve pets’ lives. It is a natural and holistic nutrition center that prioritizes the health and well-being of both cats and dogs.
“The Elgin Business Resource Centre was a very big help. It was very educational, and I learned a lot. Now when I’m out and about in the community, people recognize me as the person who was in The Pitch as Raw For Pets.”- Tom Skippen, Owner of Raw For Pets.
The Pitch winner for 2023 was Dogs On 3! Dogs on 3 is a brand new, next-generation luxury dog boarding and dog daycare facility. Its state-of-the-art floor plan offers 4800 square feet filled with private pet suites, a daycare centre, and a training room.
“I have had so many connections, so many marketing opportunities as a result of being in the pitch. I really feel the competition is worthwhile, even if I hadn’t won it.” – Tanya Buttinger, Owner of Dogs On 3.
Your Chance to Shine
Are you passionate about your business idea and eager to take it to the next level? Then The Pitch is the perfect competition for you! This year’s competition is open to businesses in all stages of development, from startups to established businesses looking to expand.
What You Can Win
This year, we have raised over $40,000 in cash and in-kind prizes, 100% of which goes towards the grand prize winner and the four remaining finalists. But that’s not all! All finalists will receive brand recognition and gain valuable exposure to potential mentors and customers.
Let’s Celebrate a Decade of Innovation!
With the 10th anniversary of The Pitch upon us, there’s never been a better time to bring your innovative ideas to the forefront. Whether you’re an entrepreneur with a groundbreaking concept, an existing small business, or a business ready to expand, The Pitch offers a unique opportunity to gain the support and resources needed to succeed. The legacy of past winners stands as a testament to what’s possible. So why wait? With the help of the Elgin Business Resource Centre’s business advisors, share your vision and create your business plan for a chance to win The Pitch!
Ready to Apply?
The application process for The Pitch is now open! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to turn your business dreams into reality!