If you want to start a business, launch a product or expand an existing business, there’s an event coming up that could give you a boost.
It’s time to prep for the the Hawk’s Nest entrepreneur and business competition.
It’s modeled after the CBC Dragon’s Den program.
Hawk’s Nest Project Coordinator Laura DeMille says “Each Hawk has agreed to invest a minimum of $5,000 in one or more of the finalists they see as a good fit. There’s a minimum of $30,000 up for grabs.”
DeMille says “We are running free virtual business plan training sessions which is run by an excellent facilitator Harold DeVries and they are coming up on November 9th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and November 21st, January 11th and then we have a special youth entrepreneur session on December 7th from 1-4.”
You’ll need to register for those. It’s open to anyone in Grey, Bruce, Wellington North, Minto and Owen Sound can attend for free.
The finals will be held June 18th, 2025 at the Hanover Civic Theatre.
DeMille says, “If you’re starting a new business, have a business idea or proposition or if you’re an existing business within the catchment area looking to expand we welcome you to attend the business plan training sessions, one of them, and email hawksnest@sbdc.ca”
The sessions are being hosted by the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation and the Bruce Community Futures Development Corporation.
Last year, over $36,0000 was invested.
2023 businesses that received support:
– Olivia Schlosser’s organic pet treat company, Mutts About You in Hanover
– Amy Caperchione’s mobile surf shop iSUP Saugeen in Sauble Beach
– Julia Downer and Sharon Black’s Black Forest Eco Oasis off-grid accommodations in Priceville
– Nicole Ireland’s ‘Stilara’ in Kincardine which showcases handmade and sustainable products.
– Monique Travale’s artisan bread mixes “Dill Doughs” in Kincardine
– Jennifer Osborn’s upcycling wool and fiber waster “EcoWool Canada Inc.” in Ayton
– Youth Entrepreneur siblings Olivia, Sierra and Cole Griffin’s baked good business Griffin’s Sweet Sensations in Tiverton
– Youth Applicant.12-year-old Keegan Hill’s KH Carpentry in West Grey