The new Shuswap Launch-a-Preneur program has captured the imagination of local entrepreneurs.
Kimberley Worthington, business support coordinator for the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society, reports that 21 teams will be taking part. Styled on programs such as CBC-TV’s Dragon’s Den, entrepreneurs will benefit from local support and experience before pitching their idea for their business on April 13.
An orientation was held this past Saturday, where three presenters spoke to the teams on keys to success, market assessment, and the top three criteria investors look for in a business.
During the next few weeks, each team will take part in workshops focusing on finance, marketing, a business plan, service and product development, and public speaking. Along with the workshops, they will team up with an Okanagan College SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) student, as well as having access to business mentors to help develop their plan.
Worthington says she is searching for more business mentors this week, as well as businesses to sponsor the grand prize package.
Teams will be set four tasks and, at the completion of the third one, will decide whether they want to proceed in the competition.
If all 21 wish to compete, then the numbers will be narrowed down via an ‘elevator pitch,’ with teams giving a quick overview of their product or service to try to entice an investor.
The ideas of the teams are confidential, but Worthington says there is an eclectic mix of business.
The grand finalists will be given an opportunity to present at the April 13 event. The prize will be a complete business start-up package of services.
“It’s exciting for the teams,” says Worthington. “It could potentially allow them to do something with their idea – to fulfill their dreams.”
More information can be obtained by calling Worthington at 250-833-0608 or by emailing: bsc@saeds.ca.
