Shaping our Appalachian Region is thrilled to announce a series of inspiring pitch competition events designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit within the halls of our colleges, universities, and communities across the region. Pizza and a Pitch is not just an event; it’s an opportunity for young entrepreneurs and innovative thinkers to showcase their ideas in a vibrant and supportive environment.

What to Expect

Pizza and a Pitch is just that – Free pizza and a business pitch! Whether your idea is new, one you’ve pondered for a while, or a business you have that you want to scale, you’ll get two minutes to pitch to a panel of supportive mentors. But that’s just the start! Those attending will enjoy: 

• Get Funded: Opportunity to secure funding that supports the growth of your business ideas or enhances your current business operations. Prizes will be given! 
• Free Pizza: Grab some free pizza while you pitch – it’s the perfect blend of fun and food!
• Open to All: Whether you’re a college student, a community member, or just someone with a passion for business and innovation, this event is for you. We welcome all to join us, pitch, listen, or simply enjoy the community spirit.

Want to Pitch?

We had you at money and free pizza, didn’t we? Ready to make your pitch? Whether you’re solo or part of a group, here’s how to secure your spot:

1. Choose the event you’d like to attend from our upcoming schedule.
2. Register to pitch by clicking the “Register” button and completing the form.
   (Note: all group members must register separately)
   
3. Not exactly ready to pitch or have questions? Click here and a member of our team will connect with you.

Upcoming Dates and Locations

University of Pikeville – Coleman College of Business, Room 200

• Date: TBD

The POWER Behind Our Idea

Shaping Our Appalachian Region was awarded a POWER grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to build a Technology-Focused Entrepreneurial Ecosystem on college and university campuses in Eastern Kentucky. 

Aside from the Pizza and Pitch series, our team is working with our partners to:

• Host inspirational Speaker Series to bring entrepreneurs from the region to colleges and universities to motivate and encourage students to reach their full potential.
• Host Ideation Workshops to help participants with the building blocks to launch a business.
• Host Startup Sprints, a three-day accelerator to help participants bring clarity to their ideas.

Our partners in this project are:

• The Appalachian Investor’s Alliance (AIA)
• Center on Rural Innovation (CORI)
• Invest 606
• KY Innovation
• University of Pikeville
• Morehead State University
• Union Commonwealth University
• Ashland Community & Technical College
• Hazard Community & Technical College
• Paintsville Independent School District

We are incredibly excited to be on these college campuses. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to connect directly with the vibrant community of students and entrepreneurs! We believe that fostering a space for innovation and collaboration is key to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in Eastern Kentucky. Being on campus allows us to engage with and support the next generation of innovators and business leaders.

– Barbara Gay, Program Manager

Let’s Make It Happen

Whether you’re eager to pitch an idea or just want to listen to innovative and inspiring pitches, Pizza and a Pitch is where you want to be. It’s your chance to be part of a community that celebrates creativity, supports growth, and fuels ambition.

Register today! 

For those who dream of entrepreneurship but are unsure of where to begin, our SOAR Innovation Team is here to help. We’re dedicated to assisting you in discovering your next steps, identifying opportunities for your business, and offering guidance throughout your journey.

 A great place to start is our Complete Guide to Entrepreneurship in Eastern Kentucky. This step-by-step guide is designed to support you in building and growing your business dreams!