Shark Tub business pitch competition returns
Freds Gots Worms is a memorable entry from past years.
Excitement is building as the third annual Shark Tub Business Pitch Competition approaches. The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 24 from 6-8 p.m. at Zane State College’s Campus Center, located at 1555 Newark Road in Zanesville.
Shark Tub celebrates entrepreneurship by providing a platform for emerging businesses in East Central Ohio. The competition is open to startups that have registered with the Secretary of State and have been in operation for fewer than five years. Participants hail from Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson, Muskingum and Tuscarawas counties.
The format features live business pitches delivered to a panel of “Sharks” — judges who are local business leaders and investors. These judges provide feedback, ask questions and ultimately determine which pitches stand out. Audience members also play a role by voting for their favorite pitches using purchased “prop money,” turning the event into an interactive and lively experience.
John M. Kelly, director of business development and administration at the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.
“I love supporting startup companies. A dream for a lot of Americans is to own your own company, and usually the biggest challenge to that dream is funding,” Kelly said. “Shark Tub gives startup companies a chance to win cash prizes and to meet potential new customers.”
Kelly added that one of his favorite aspects of the event is seeing the community come together to support emerging entrepreneurs.
“It is really fun to have 100 or so people talking to the competitors, exploring all these new companies, and putting in some money to support them and help choose the winners.”
Last year’s competition awarded $7,500 in prizes to participating businesses. This year’s prize packages have not yet been disclosed but are expected to draw even more interest.
Beyond the competition, Shark Tub serves as a valuable networking opportunity for participants and attendees alike. Aspiring entrepreneurs will have the chance to connect with judges, mentors and potential collaborators. These relationships may lead to guidance, partnerships or opportunities that help transform early-stage ideas into thriving businesses.
Kelly emphasized the broader impact of supporting entrepreneurs.
“Studies have shown that startup companies create more new job openings nationally than the big Fortune 500 companies,” he said. “Entrepreneurs bring a different perspective on life and work and business. You have to risk starting a new company, and we need more people to chase their dreams and help provide good jobs for others in the community.”
The Shark Tub competition aims to foster a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem by encouraging innovation and supporting those who are willing to take risks. The event offers an engaging, encouraging space for entrepreneurs to refine their pitch skills, gain feedback and find motivation within a supportive community.
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