Finalists to pitch in Washington, D.C. for share of prize pool
(UCBJ) – The U.S. Small Business Administration has launched a nationwide competition offering a $1 million prize pool to highlight entrepreneurship, innovation and economic growth across the country.
The Patriot Pitch Competition, announced as part of the nation’s Freedom 250 celebration, is open to eligible small businesses that have used qualifying SBA capital products. Prize funding is being provided by Clover Network Inc.
According to the SBA, the competition is designed to recognize entrepreneurs and companies driving American innovation, job creation and economic competitiveness.
“From the family farm to the factory floor, small businesses have punched above their weight for the last 250 years to power America’s economy, which is why the SBA is proud to spotlight the legacy and potential of entrepreneurship through the Patriot Pitch Competition,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said. “This nationwide contest will award a total of $1 million in cash prizes to small businesses whose innovation, grit and leadership are helping build America’s next great era of strength, prosperity and competitiveness on the world stage.”
Takis Georgakopoulos, co-president of Fiserv, said the company is proud to support the initiative through Clover.
“This competition truly embodies the spirit of innovation, fierce competition and American ingenuity — the very same values that define Clover,” Georgakopoulos said.
According to the SBA, entries will be judged on several criteria, including strengthening American competitiveness, industry innovation and impact, delivering economic opportunity and quality jobs and demonstrating strong business fundamentals and execution readiness.
The competition will include four rounds of judging before concluding with a live finals event in Washington, D.C., scheduled for September. Finalists will pitch their businesses before a panel of judges and a national audience for a share of the $1 million prize pool.
The SBA said the finals event will also feature speaker sessions with business and government leaders, a supplier matchmaking expo connecting small businesses with contracting opportunities and networking opportunities with investors, policymakers and industry leaders.
Applications for the Patriot Pitch Competition are due June 10. Additional eligibility requirements, competition details and event information are available through the SBA’s Freedom 250 page.
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