Dominion Energy Innovation Center Executive Director Adam Sledd with 2024 Center Street Pitch Competition panelists.
The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and Downtown Ashland Association (DAA) are thrilled to announce the return of the Center Street Pitch Competition, a dynamic event designed to empower local entrepreneurs and ignite innovation. Set to take place on April 10, 2025, at the historic Ashland Theatre, this competition provides an exciting platform for aspiring business owners to present their ideas and compete for over $35,000 in prizes.
Encouraging Innovation, Strengthening Community
"The Center Street Pitch Competition is an incredible opportunity not just to support local entrepreneurs financially but to come together as a community to celebrate their innovative ideas," said Lou Keeton, Director of Operations with Downtown Ashland Association.
Now in its tenth year, the competition continues to drive economic growth by providing early-stage capital to promising businesses. "Through the Center Street Pitch Competition, we're celebrating ten years of empowering local entrepreneurs and igniting their innovative spirit with early-stage capital," said Adam Sledd, Executive Director of DEIC. "This year is particularly exciting as we partner with the Downtown Ashland Association to increase the prize pool and focus on a diverse set of Main Street businesses that make Ashland and Hanover a thriving community."
Who Can Compete?
Local entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for a chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes. The competition will award winners in three categories:
All entrepreneurs in all industries are welcome to apply, with selection favoring SWAM businesses.
Center of the Universe Business:
Open to businesses located within the Ashland Main Street District. First place wins $10,000, second place $5,000, and third place $2,500. The first-place winner also receives a complimentary Downtown Ashland Association membership.
Hanover and Beyond Business:
Open to businesses in the Town of Ashland, Hanover County, and the greater Richmond Region. First place wins $5,000, second place $2,500, and third place $1,500, with the first-place winner also receiving a DEIC membership.
Agriculture & Forestry Business:
to farm and forestry businesses in Hanover County and the greater Richmond MSA. First place wins $5,000, second place $2,500, and third place $1,500, with the first-place winner also receiving a DEIC membership.
How to Apply: Entrepreneurs can apply by completing a brief application and submitting an executive summary of their business plan. Applications are due by 5 PM on March 19, 2025. Apply today!
Event Details: The Center Street Pitch Competition will be held on April 10, 2025, at the Ashland Theatre from 6 PM – 8 PM. Doors open to the public at 5:30 PM, and attendees are encouraged to come and cheer on local entrepreneurs as they showcase their innovative business ideas.
This competition is a testament to the ongoing commitment of DEIC and DAA to support small business owners with mentorship, networking, and education year-round. For more information and to apply, visit www.ashlandvirginia.com/pitch