NEUSTADT – The Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is partnering with the Bruce Community Futures Development Corporation (Bruce CFDC) to again deliver the Hawks’ Nest.
The Dragons’ Den-inspired competition features entrepreneurs from various sectors pitching business ideas to secure financial support from local “Hawk” investors.
As part of preparations for submitting applications into the Hawks’ Nest competition, entrepreneurs have the opportunity to attend free business plan training sessions, which are coming up:
– Feb. 22 from 9am to 1pm at Launch Pad, 612 10th St., Hanover (youth only); and
– Feb. 27 from 9 am to 5 pm at the CNRA Club House, 160 Main St., Palmerston.
Once plans are completed and submitted for Hawks’ Nest, a review of each application is conducted. Those chosen to proceed will get “pitch” training to prepare for a presentation to the Hawks at the event, planned for June 17 at the Roxy Theatre in Owen Sound.
“We are excited to once again bring the Hawks’ Nest to the Grey, Bruce, Owen Sound and Wellington North areas,” said Rose Austin, general manager of SEDC.
“This event continues to support local economic growth and provide a development opportunity for new businesses and local business expansions.”
Six regional entrepreneurs and one youth from the program coverage area will have the opportunity to gain investment from the Hawks, with each investor committing to a minimum $5,000 value investment in one or more competitors they see as a good fit for them. The investment is at the discretion of each Hawk.
“We are very pleased to be involved in this important project,” said Barb Fisher, general manager for the Bruce CFDC.
“We see this as a great way to reach out to entrepreneurs so they bring their enthusiasm to the Hawks for consideration of their new or expanding business.”
Each entrepreneur with a new business is required to take the business plan training. Expanding businesses are encouraged to do so, and should present a plan in accordance with the template used for the training. Deadline for submissions to the Hawks’ Nest is March 27.
How to get involved
The Hawks’ Nest is supported by many regional businesses through a sponsorship package.
For more information on the Hawks’ Nest, to attend training, submit a proposal or get involved as a sponsor, see the websites at sbdc.ca or bruce.on.ca or email hawksnest@sbdc.ca.
The non-profit SEDC and the Bruce CFDC offer a wide variety of programs and services designed to support community economic development and small business growth in the region.
