SCEDF Solicits Contestants for 2023 Starke Tank Countywide Business Pitch Competition

KNOX, Ind. – The Starke County Economic Development Foundation is looking for entrepreneurial small business owners to participate in the annual Starke Tank Countywide Business Pitch Competition. It will take place Sunday, August 20 at 3 p.m. CDT at Knox Community High School in Knox, Ind.

Contestants do not have to reside in Starke County; however, they must operate a business there or be willing to establish one within the county limits if they win. Small businesses that have been open for three years or less, new businesses that are not yet operational, and established businesses that have changed ownership within the past three years are all eligible.

So are businesses that have been in operation for more than three years that are developing growth through a new product, service line, expansion, or implementation of a new strategic plan. The company’s growth plan must be clear to be eligible.

Starke Tank is in its fourth year, and its second as a countywide competition. Last year 10 contestants took part. Irelynd Alexis Boutique in downtown Knox won the $12,000 first prize. Bone Boss Game Calls placed second and won $6,000.

Local businesses, utilities, corporations, banks, Realtors, and governmental entities donate toward the prize money and provide door prizes, which are given away to audience members during the event.

“Our sponsors recognize that a vibrant small business community is critical to Starke County’s growth and continued success,” SCEDF Executive Director Lisa Dan said. “We hope to make this year’s Starke Tank our biggest and best yet.”

There is no cost for contestants to enter. They will receive free coaching from an Indiana Small Business Development Center advisor and will be required to participate in a dress rehearsal. Applications and a complete list of rules can be found online at www.scedf.biz.

“Starke Tank” provides great exposure for the participants and the sponsors,” Dan said. “Audience members will learn about each business, and the sponsors will be featured in the event program as well as at the venue.”

Contact the Starke County Economic Development Foundation at 574-772-5627 or [email protected] for more information about Starke Tank 2023 sponsorships.

ABOUT SCEDF

The Starke County Economic Development Foundation is a nonprofit local economic development organization (LEDO) providing economic development opportunities on behalf of Starke County, Indiana, the City of Knox, and the Towns of North Judson and Hamlet through the development of industrial parks, rail spurs, greenfield sites, shovel-ready sites, infrastructure, and workforce development. For more information regarding the Starke County Economic Development Foundation, visit www.scedf.biz.

Starke Tank 2023 Documents

Click on the links below to download the rules or an application for Starke Tank 2023.

Date Published: 2023-05-19 14:07:51

SCEDF Sponsors

NIPSCO
Kankakee Valley REMC
Wabash Valley Power Alliance