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The second annual Pitch & Empower Hamilton County competition is now accepting applications from small business owners who are ready to take their ventures to the next level.
This high-impact Pitch & Empower Hamilton County event will take place on October 22, 2025, at Memorial Hall—offering $10,000 in prizes, visibility, and access to expert support for local entrepreneurs.
Created by the Hamilton County Office of Small Business in collaboration with Alloy Development Co., ECDI, the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, and the African American Chamber, Pitch & Empower Hamilton County celebrates and elevates the everyday business owners who keep the region running.
Why Pitch & Empower Hamilton County Matters
Unlike traditional startup events focused on tech or venture capital, Pitch & Empower Hamilton County is built for the small business owner—the ones running storefronts, mobile services, and family-run operations throughout the county.
These are the local entrepreneurs who:
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Hire from the community
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Invest in neighborhood revitalization
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Support schools, churches, and youth programs
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Represent the backbone of Hamilton County’s economy
This event gives them a stage, a voice, and real resources to grow.
Finalists receive not just prize money but also business coaching, pitch training, media exposure, and connections to local funders. In an environment where access to capital can be limited—especially for minority- and women-owned businesses—Pitch & Empower Hamilton County fills a critical gap.
It’s more than a contest. It’s an investment in the region’s future.
Who Should Apply to Pitch & Empower Hamilton County
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For-profit small businesses located in Hamilton County
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In operation for at least one year
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Running a brick-and-mortar or licensed mobile business
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Actively earning revenue
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Looking to grow and stay rooted in the local community
This opportunity is especially focused on businesses owned by Black, Latino, women, and other historically underrepresented founders.
How Pitch & Empower Hamilton County Works
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Applications are open from August 18 – September 8, 2025
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16 semi-finalists will be invited to submit a pitch video
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8 finalists will pitch live on October 22 at Memorial Hall
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Finalists receive coaching, training, and support ahead of the event
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Each finalist will deliver a 3-minute live pitch
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Winners will be selected by a judging panel and audience vote
Prize Breakdown:
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1st Place: $5,000
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2nd Place: $3,000
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3rd Place: $1,000
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Audience Favorite: $1,000
Schedule
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Submissions Open: August 18, 2025 at 12:00 PM
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Applications Open: August 18, 2025 at 12:00 PM
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Applications Close: September 8, 2025 at 11:59 PM
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Submissions Close: September 8, 2025 at 11:59 PM
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Live Pitch Event: October 22, 2025 at Memorial Hall
