It's that time of year again for Will This Float?, one of Chattanooga's most anticipated business pitch competitions. This fast-paced event is often the first moment in the limelight for participating entrepreneurs. Each finalist gets the stage for three minutes to tell the world (including local startup leaders and potential mentors and team members) why his or her concept is awesome. Once all participants present, the audience and a panel of judges vote on the best idea. At the end of the evening, the winning entrepreneur receives a cash prize and a package of free business services to take his or her startup idea to the next level.

This year, Will This Float will mark the launch of our new Kiva program! Kiva is a non-profit that enables passionate and determined entrepreneurs throughout the U.S. to access 0% interest small business loans via a crowdfunding platform. Additionally in the spirit of the Kiva crowdfunding community, the audience will be able to immediately lend to the business that captivates them, using the Kiva website available on computers throughout the room.

The first 100 attendees will receive a $25 gift card to donate to the finalist of their choice!

To find out more information about Will This Float?, visit colab.co/willthisfloat.

Your free ticket includes food and drink tickets as well as the chance to boost Chattanooga's up-and-coming startups.

*Finalists will be announced soon. Stay tuned.