Pitch Contest
Compete to Earn Funding & Support!
The No More Empty Pots and Midwest Dairy Pitch Contest creates an impactful and collaborative environment that supports entrepreneurs, fosters innovation, and contributes to the growth of the local dairy industry. Food entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate for a chance to earn funding that enhances and grows their business ventures.
OVERVIEW
HOW IT WORKS
All participants must meet the eligibility requirements listed below on this page. A panel of judges will evaluate each contestant’s performance across 3 ROUNDS OF PITCHING and determine which contestants advance to the consecutive rounds. Not all contestants will advance to each round. At the Final Pitch Round, TWO WINNERS be selected. Scroll down to review the full prize earnings for each winner.
Your journey as a contestant begins with participating in the HOW TO PITCH WORKSHOP. In addition, mentorship sessions are required for each contestant to attend and refine your business pitch. For more information on prizes, eligibility criteria, and the complete contest schedule, please scroll down on this page. We eagerly anticipate your participation and look forward to witnessing the innovation and creativity you bring to the table.
APPLICATIONS DUE MAY 13TH
Before applying, please review the eligibility criteria and complete contest schedule by scrolling down. Applicants who qualify are encouraged to fill-out the APPLICATION FORM due on Monday, May 13th. Only selected applicants will proceed to participate in pitch competition. You will be notified if selected no later than Thursday, May 16th.
PRIZE EARNINGS
At the Final Pitch Round, TWO WINNERS will be voted on and selected by a panel of judges. Each winner will receive:
+ $10,000 Cash Prize
The “Cash Prize” is restricted funding. See the guidelines below.
- Funds may be used for the following purposes: Advertising-related expenses to promote the winning product, emphasizing the dairy ingredients and supporting the dairy farmer producer; Design and creation of product packaging; Website design focusing on the winning product to effectively reach consumers; and Research and development of additional dairy-based products.
- Funds may NOT be used for the following purposes: Labor costs; Rent payments; Expansion of facilities; and Purchase of equipment.
+ Six Months of Technical Assistance
The provided “Technical Assistance” from No More Empty Pots is valued at $24,739. A list of what’s included is below.
- Covered Kitchen Rental Startup Costs
- Covered Kitchen Rental Costs: Up to 100 Hours Per Month (June 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024)
- Other Support: One-on-One Coaching, Financial Literacy Workshops, Business Development Workshops, and other similar opportunities to advance and grow your business.
PITCH DETAILS
Contest Schedule
Application Deadline
Apply by Monday, May 13th, 2024, at 11:59 P.M.
Participant Notification
Selected applicants are notified on Thursday, May 16th, 2024.
Saturday, May 18th
“How to Pitch” Workshop | 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.
Greenhouse, 2120 N. 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68111
Saturday, May 25th
Round 1 Pitch | 9:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
The Greenhouse, 2120 N. 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68111
Saturday, June 1st
Round 2 Pitch | 9:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M.
The Greenhouse, 2120 N. 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68111
Thursday, June 6th
Round 3 Pitch | 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
The Venue, 2120 N. 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68111
Eligibility Criteria
- Business Stage: Both startups and established businesses are eligible to apply.
- Industry Focus: The business must operate in the food industry. A minimum of 30% of the menu offerings must include dairy products.
- Legal Structure: The business must have a legally recognized structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation).
- Location: The business must be located and operational in Greater Omaha.
- Ownership and Leadership: At least 51% ownership of the business must be held by a BIPOC or Marginalized founder or co-founder. The BIPOC or Marginalized founder or co-founder must play a significant leadership role in the business.
- Community Impact: The business should demonstrate a commitment to positive community impact through its operations.
- Sustainability Practices: Businesses should showcase a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, particularly in the sourcing of dairy products.
- Inclusivity: The business should actively promote inclusivity and celebrate diversity, both in its workforce and in its engagement with the community.
- Compliance: The business must comply with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
- Application Submission: Complete and submit the official pitch contest application by the specified deadline.
