G60 event to give entrepreneurs opportunity

G60 event to give entrepreneurs opportunity

Aspiring entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges and win $1,000 April 23 at Henderson State University. The School of Business is hosting a G60 (Gone in 60 Seconds) event where contestants will have 60 seconds to convince the judges and audience that their idea is best.

Since 2011, G60 events have been held throughout the South. Contest winners have been awarded thousands in prize money, and many have gone on to build successful ventures.

Anyone can compete, and there is no charge to make a pitch or attend. Contestants and the audience are asked to register at eventbrite.com/e/g60-pitch-contest-arkadelphia-tickets-16205901287. The event will start at 6 p.m. in the Garrison Center Grand Ballroom.

“The contest is open to everyone, but we really want the local college students from Henderson, Ouachita Baptist, College of the Ouachitas, and National Park Community College to compete,” said Dr. Brenda Ponsford, dean of Henderson’s School of Business.

Two $1,000 prizes will be awarded: one based on audience vote, and the other chosen by the judges.

The format of the G60 contest is much like the popular television series “Shark Tank” where entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors.

G60 was started by Jeff Amerine in 2011 to promote startups and help improve business founders’ communication skills. The result is a more vibrant entrepreneurial community that has a positive impact on a region’s economic development.

For more information and pitch tips, go to g60contest.com.