October 31, 2023 9:50 a.m.

The Umpqua Economic Development Partnership has announced the return of Umpqua Growth Talks Pitch Nights, beginning in 2024.

Applications are now being accepted for the first event – a Small Business Pitch Night event January 17th at Backside Brewing in Roseburg.

Pitch Nights invite entrepreneurs with business ideas and small business owners to pitch their concepts to a panel of judges for prize money intended to help their idea or business grow. The pitches take place in front of a live, supportive audience. Those in attendance get to cast a vote for their favorite presentation. The first event is open to businesses that have surpassed $5,000 in revenue.

Partnership Executive Director Brian Prawitz said, “People have been asking when Umpqua Growth Talks Pitch Nights were going to return”. Prawitz said, “It takes a lot of work behind the scenes to prepare for these events in order to do them right. We’re finally ready”.

The first step in the process of pitching a small business concept is to apply through www.umpquagrowthtalks.com. Six candidates will be selected from the application pool, and be given the opportunity to work with coaches who will help improve the impact of each presentation.

Prawitz said the 2023 Pitch Night format will include a networking period, emphasis on successful local entrepreneurs, more information about past winners, and support, encouragement and direction for people thinking about starting their own business. Dates for Pitch Night events are January 17th, April 17th, July 17th and October 16th.