(Karen Barnes)

– Identifying and validating business ideas

– Conducting market research and competitive analysis

– Defining target audience and value proposition

(Laurie Brintle Jarvis with SBC and ____ with EDC)

   – Government programs and resources for startups and small businesses

    – Local business support organizations and chambers of commerce

    – Online platforms and communities for entrepreneurial guidance and mentorship

(Speakers TBD)

   – Understanding how you CAN afford to make your ideas into a business

   – Different sources of funding for startups

   – Exploring traditional and alternative funding options

   – Preparing financial projections and documents for potential investors

(Penny Chappell Luckraft)

– Creating a persuasive pitch deck

– Selecting and presenting key business metrics and financial projections

– Addressing potential investor concerns and objections

– Contact The Masthead to set up your connection with a mentor

– All attendees will be given 2hrs of time from a local mentor and given further material to develop their idea lay out

1. Mick Zulpo – The Block, The Lost Wombat, and Liberty Theater
2. Stoney Greene – Stone Wheel Trucking
3. Brewer Logan – Verenovo
4. Erin Vanderploeg/ LB Prevette – Merles

    – Learning from successful entrepreneurs and businesses

    – Analyzing case studies of business challenges and strategies for overcoming them

    – Drawing inspiration from real-world examples of business success

– Delivering mock pitches to receive constructive feedback

– Refining presentation skills and addressing areas of improvement

– Incorporating feedback to enhance pitch effectiveness

(Judges will be revealed soon)

– Finalizing pitch decks and presentation materials

– Participating in the live pitch competition

– Receiving feedback from investors and panelists

– Awarding prizes and resources to winners

– Accessing post-competition support, including one-on-one coaching and expert assistance