Entrepreneur competition announced by town

Hanover has announced a new competition with the aim of adding to the local business community.

Hanover’s Innovative People Program, or HIPP, is putting on a Entrepreneur Business Plan Competition, spearheaded by Hanover’s Economic, Tourism and Cultural Development Advisory Committee.

April Marshall, Economic Development Manager, says the competition will be held biennially to grow small businesses in Hanover and increase awareness of the resources available.

“Which is an opportunity for us to invite new businesses to consider Hanover. So either to buy a business, start a new business or move their business here. We have many great sponsors and over $11,000 in prizes to be awarded, so it’s going to be a very good support for a new business to start,” Marshall enthused.

Applicants will fill out a registration and submit an executive summary, followed by a training session and pitches to judges.

“And then we’ll wrap it all up with awarding the prizes accordingly, which includes some start-up capital, business coaching, advertising packages, digital media support and complimentary memberships and services,” added Marshall.

Marshall notes this is in an effort to retain and welcome new business to the area.

“We pride ourselves on being a vibrant and progressive community and we are very happy with all the businesses we have. So we’re excited to build on our hub of commerce in this regional area and welcome even more new businesses to Hanover,” Marshall explained.

Marshall adds the program is designed after the successful Pitch It Minto Business Plan Competition.

To enter, applicants must fill out the application and send it in along with the Executive Summary by 5 p.m. on Monday, September 30, 2024, to the Town of Hanover Municipal Office.

Finalists will be required to develop a thorough and structured business plan and attend one training session, the “New Business Review & Pitch Camp,” that will focus on identifying what they need to get started on their entrepreneurship path and introduce them to the tools of success that turn an idea into a business.

Entrepreneurs will be asked to prepare a 15-minute oral presentation to be delivered to the Hanover Economic Development Manager and the panel of Judges. There will be 1 winner and 2 finalists that will share in the prizes.

Sponsors for the competition include: