What if speed dating, or just quick conversations, was incorporated into a business pitch competition format? You know, a competition where ideas can be discussed without projections or even a business plan. 

Sounds a little different, and like a whole lot of fun!

That’s why we are hosting the region’s first-ever Speed Pitch Competition on Thursday, October 20 as part of the SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, at the Appalachian Wireless Arena in Pikeville.

Your Idea and Your Passion take Center Stage

At the Speed Pitch Competition, it is simple: a podium, a microphone, your idea, and two minutes to make your pitch. The competition will be held at New Beginnings Fellowship Church, located beside the Main Street Entrance to the Appalachian Wireless Arena. 

Prior to the competition, at 9 a.m. Thursday, October 20, our Innovation team and partners will host a 45-minute session on How to Craft a Winning Pitch. The competition will start at 10:15 a.m. 

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, as a limited number of spots are available. You can register by completing this short form. You must also be registered for the SOAR Summit. You can register HERE. 

If you are a high school or college/university student, please contact us to receive a Promo Code to waive your Summit registration, thanks to the support of Toyota Tsusho. To get a waiver, contact Karen Roberts Prater at karen@soar-ky.org or call (606) 766-1160.

We strongly encourage participation from high school and college and university students. If you are a student, you can attend the Summit for free thanks to the support of Toyota Tsusho. Contact Karen Roberts Prater at karen@soar-ky.org or call (606) 766-1160 to secure your promo code. Teachers are also welcome to bring classes to the Summit.

Cash Prizes

Winners will walk away with cash prizes for first, second, and third place based upon scoring by a group of expert judges. How much cash could you win?

• $500 for first place
• $250 for second place
• $100 for third place

SOAR Summit is Appalachia’s Premier Event

The SOAR Summit will take place on October 19-20 at the Appalachian Wireless Arena with programming at New beginnings Fellowship Church and the Appalachian Center for the Arts. 

Registration is all-inclusive at $50 through September 30. After that, it will increase to $70. Registration includes:

• All programming
• Breakfast, lunch, and snacks on both days
• The SOAR Summit Reception (October 19)
• SOAR Summit Exhibit Hall with more than 100 exhibits

You can register and view our updated agenda HERE.