MARSHFIELD, WI (WSAU) — A popular Shark Tank style competition is headed back to our area again this year, and there’s a series of upcoming events scheduled around central Wiscosnin.
That’s according to Executive Director Scott Larson from Marshfield’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who says it’s all part of what’s called the ‘HATCH Program.’ “The chambers and economic development organizations here in central Wisconsin are very excited to be working with the HATCH Program. It’s a great opportunity to showcase entrepreneurs here in central Wisconsin.”
Larson says it’ll be a chance to compete for the financial support to “hatch” an innovative idea. “If you have a business idea, a business service, that you’re looking to take to the market, this would be a great opportunity to help you advance that product.”
The BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation puts on the competition, and this year the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation is providing up to an additional $65,000 in matching funds to help expand the program to northwestern and southeastern regions of the state.
Local competitions in central Wisconsin will be held in Wausau, Rapids, Point, and Marshfield, with individuals or teams pitching their ideas to a panel of judges. Then, a grand prize winner will be chosen at a regional competition in early November.
Central Wisconsin region schedule:
May 16 – Stevens Point at Eron’s Event Barn, hosted by the Portage County Business Council
June 20 – Wisconsin Rapids at Mid-State Technical College
August 8 – Wausau (venue to be determined), hosted by the Entrepreneurial & Education Center
September 26 – Marshfield (venue TBD), hosted by the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry
November 7 – Regional finale in Stevens Point (venue TDB), hosted by Central Wisconsin HATCH
As more details for these events become available, they will be posted at http://newaukee.com/event/hatch/. Click on the “Events” link.
Brightstar is accepting applications from entrepreneurs who are interested in presenting their business ideas at upcoming HATCH events. Go to http://newaukee.com/event/hatch/ and click on “Submit an Idea” link.
