The Tacoma Community College (TCC)/William Factory Small Business Incubator (WF), Business Idea & Pitch Competition provides an opportunity to nurture and showcase entrepreneurial talent. (This competition is open to TCC students, WF Fellows & Tacoma/Pierce County residents).

Individuals or teams – which may include student classes - (without limit on the number of people preparing an idea and pitch) must submit this online application to participate. Applications must include one name of team member (preferably the selected team leader), email, TCC status, WF affiliation and/or resident of Tacoma/Pierce County, business product or service idea, and a summary of why this idea is important.

Winners of this competition will  receive awards of $1,000 in venture funds, donated professional services, use of co-working space and media recognition.

Application deadline is January 31, 2021 at 11:59pm.

Pitch Competition:

Wednesday, April 21, 2021
3:00pm – 5:00pm
via Zoom Communications

A maximum of ten individuals or teams will be notified by February 15, 2021 of their acceptance to the second round.

Each participant (individuals or teams) accepted into the second round will be assigned a mentor. Second round participants and mentors will meet a minimum of two times prior to the semi-final round to be held during the week of March 29, 2021.

A maximum of five participants (individuals or teams) will be selected for the final round to be held on April 21, 2021. These participants will be selected during the semi-final round.

Participants (individuals or teams) must attend a minimum of three WF training sessions held between January 1, 2021 and March 15, 2021.

Participants will also be invited to attend a "How to Pitch Your Idea" workshop presented by TCC faculty. We plan two opportunities to attend in February and March (TBD) in efforts to accommodate all participants. This workshop will be 2-3 hours and include skill-based activities, lots of feedback and a scored mock competition.  

A maximum of three people can pitch a business idea in a presentation format. Pitch presentations are limited to five minutes and may include an oral presentation, use of audio/visual equipment, props, music, appropriate dress, product handouts and use of mobile links.

Five minutes after each presentation will be reserved for audience Q&A. Attendees may display appropriate vocal and visual forms of support.

A panel of judges will rate and rank presenters with awardees announced following a brief intermission.

A reception will follow allowing networking and congratulatory exchanges.