The two-day gathering at the Enterprise Center pairs a $6,000 pitch competition with access to lenders, contracting specialists and business advisers.
WS Chronicle | Staff Report
Winston-Salem entrepreneurs will put their business ideas before judges tonight as the Unlocking Opportunity Summit begins a two-day program focused on finding financing, pursuing contracts and building businesses.
Hosted by the Winston-Salem Women’s Business Center, the summit opens Thursday, Sept. 24, with Pitch Night at the Enterprise Center, 1922 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Organizers’ published schedule lists a 5 p.m. start.
Ten entrepreneurs are scheduled to compete in startup/idea and established-business categories for a combined $6,000 in cash prizes. Each presenter will have five minutes to explain the business, followed by two minutes of questions from judges. Winners are scheduled to be announced during Friday’s summit.
For business owners attending, Friday’s program offers opportunities to speak directly with lenders, contracting experts and organizations that provide business assistance. The summit runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at the same location.
The agenda includes breakout sessions on funding, contracting, marketing and business growth, along with a resource-partner expo and speed counseling with business experts. Networking and a keynote presentation are also scheduled, according to the.
The program brings several business needs into one setting: preparing to seek financing, learning how to compete for contracts and finding ways to reach customers. Owners can meet advisers and resource organizations while also connecting with other entrepreneurs.
The Chronicle previewed the summit last week, including its planned workshops and speakers. With the event beginning today, prospective attendees should check registration details before heading to the Enterprise Center.
Published admission prices differ among event listings. Attendees should confirm the current cost, ticket availability and final schedule through the registration page or directly with organizers.
Admission to the event should not be confused with entry into the pitch competition. Organizers’ published deadline for pitch applications was Sept. 1; buying an admission ticket does not establish eligibility to compete.
Registration information is available through the summit’s Eventbrite page. Questions about the event can be directed to the Enterprise Center at 336-734-6900 or info@sgacdc.org.