Houston Dynamo and BBVA Compass launch second annual “The Pitch” contest
BBVA Compass has once again partnered with the Houston Dynamo to host the second-annual “The Pitch” small business competition, as part of National Small Business Month.
The contest launches today, also kicking off the bank’s “Year of Opportunities for Small Businesses” initiative, with contest submissions being accepted through May 19. The top four entries will be announced on May 31, and a fan vote will determine the winner, which will be announced on Friday, June 9.
“The first contest launched last fall was a tremendous success and we are eager to see even more business plan submissions this time around,” said BBVA Compass Houston CEO Mark Montgomery. “Entrepreneurship and innovative ideas are integral components to thriving communities, and BBVA Compass is committed to creating opportunities for small businesses and helping them build their bright futures.
We are eager to see even more business plan submissions this time around.
Prizes for The Pitch 2017 include the chance to win $10,000, a consultation with a member of the Houston Dynamo executive group, a consultation with a BBVA Compass executive and a suite for a 2018 Houston Dynamo game, among other prizes. Last year the Pitch received more than 100 submissions from small businesses and start-ups in the Houston area. JC Sports, a toddler and youth sports indoor sport complex, was named the winner of The Pitch 2016. Similar versions of the contest are also being done in other bank markets this year.
"Winning The Pitch contest 2016 was phenomenal,” said JC Sports Co-Owner Jennifer Coronel. “This past year has been an amazing experience and we are so thankful to the Dynamo and BBVA. To be able to use the funds from the contest to strengthen our relationships with our local schools and community was a huge blessing. Many children in the Humble area now have access to quality PE equipment because of this experience."
"Winning The Pitch was phenomenal. This past year has been an amazing experience."
Business owners are encouraged to submit a short description about their company along with their business plan describing why they think their company has a Bright Future in their industry. Each submission will be reviewed by BBVA Compass executives, Dynamo executives, as well as a representative from the East End Chamber of Commerce and SCORE to determine the top four entries. The winners’ submissions will be featured online and be voted on by Dynamo fans to determine the winner.
“We are proud to be part of this program, and it is another positive initiative driven by our partnership with BBVA Compass. Small businesses are a core component of our community, and we take great pride in supporting them,” said Dynamo President Chris Canetti. “Last year’s inaugural contest was a great success, and we are excited to build upon it. The timing of The Pitch this year is perfect as it coincides with National Small Business Month.”
The timing of The Pitch this year is perfect as it coincides with National Small Business Month.
For more information or to submit an entry visit www.houstondynamo.com/bbvacompasspitch.