River Pitch 2019 Seeks Student, Community Entrepreneurs

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Do you have an idea for a new product, service or business? Can you pitch it in three minutes or less?

If so, sign up to be part of the 2019 River Pitch Business Idea Competition at the Tuscaloosa River Market Nov. 19 from 5-9 p.m. Not ready to pitch?  Stop by, watch and learn.

The competition allows University of Alabama students and members of the Tuscaloosa-area community to pitch their ideas to judges for a chance to win one of eight $1,000 prizes. Not only will participants have the opportunity to win money, but they will also receive valuable feedback on their ideas and potentially meet experts in entrepreneurship who will help to improve their pitches and develop their ideas into businesses.

River Pitch is a joint effort of the Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute, the EDGE Entrepreneurship Center, The University of Alabama Culverhouse College of Business, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama and the City of Tuscaloosa.

Registration is required and available on the AEI’s website at entrepreneurship.ua.edu.

“Any solid business idea is worth bringing to River Pitch,” said Dr. Theresa Welbourne, executive director of the Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute and The EDGE. “Last year was our largest River Pitch event, and from that we had several new businesses start and accelerate.”

“This event is also a great way for local aspiring entrepreneurs to learn about what we’re doing at The EDGE.”

The competition is a part of the Tuscaloosa area’s participation in Global Entrepreneurship Week, which takes place Nov. 18-24. Upcoming activities include:

• Wednesday, Nov. 6: River Pitch Workshop – Entrepreneurial Speed Coaching
• Monday, Nov. 18: River Pitch Workshop – Open Pitch Practice
• Tuesday, Nov. 19: River Pitch Competition
• Wednesday, Nov. 20: Entrepreneuring Day
• Thursday, Nov. 21: Startup Drinks at The Alcove

All events, other than River Pitch and Startup Drinks, take place at The EDGE, located at 2627 10^th Ave. in the heart of Tuscaloosa. More info about each event is available at the links above.

Global Entrepreneurship Week aims to inspire millions in 170 countries to engage in entrepreneurial activity. The week connects those looking to start their own business with potential collaborators, mentors and investors.