Pitch & Prosper is a dynamic two-hour workshop designed to spark entrepreneurship in rural communities by providing an inclusive space for aspiring business owners to share their ideas and receive real-time, constructive feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs. Whether participants have a fully-formed business plan or are simply exploring an idea, this workshop offers a supportive environment to speak their vision aloud, get encouragement, and gain practical insights.
Objectives:
- Encourage rural residents to explore entrepreneurship
- Provide access to experienced mentors and business leaders
- Build confidence and communication skills among aspiring entrepreneurs
- Foster a network of local innovators and small business supporters
Format:
- Welcome & Warm-Up (15 min): Introduction to the workshop and community-building activity
- Lightning Pitches (60 min): Each participant gets 3–5 minutes to share their idea, followed by 5 minutes of feedback from a panel of local entrepreneurs and business advisors
- Group Discussion & Resource Share (30 min): Open Q&A, discussion of common themes, and sharing of local support resources (grants, mentorship, DN coworking resources, SBDC, etc.)
- Wrap-Up & Next Steps (15 min): Encouragement to keep developing ideas, with follow-up opportunities for 1:1 mentorship or business planning support
Target Audience:
Rural community members of all ages who have a business idea, idea to grow an existing business , or side hustle in mind, including students, retirees, value-added ag , artists, and tradespeople.
Outcomes:
Participants leave with:
- Honest, supportive feedback
- New connections with local business leaders
- Increased confidence and direction for next steps
- Awareness of available business support resources
