What's Happening?
The Small Business Center at Bladen Community College has opened applications for 'Pitch It Bladen County 2027,' a free eight-week entrepreneurship program. This initiative aims to transform promising business ideas into successful ventures for individuals
based in or planning to locate their businesses in Bladen County. The program, which begins on January 12, 2027, will offer structured classes on Tuesday evenings from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at the college in Dublin. Participants will receive practical instruction, individual business counseling, and tools to develop comprehensive business and financial plans, as well as pitch presentations. Topics covered include understanding startup requirements, selecting business structures, bookkeeping, financial reporting, marketing, startup costs, and preparing funding requests. The program culminates in a pitching competition where finalists present to local business and funding partners, with the top three pitches receiving cash prizes of $1,500, $1,000, and $500 respectively. Winners will be announced at the Small Business Expo on April 21, 2027.
Why It's Important?
This program is crucial for fostering economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit within Bladen County. By providing free, comprehensive training and financial incentives, it lowers barriers to entry for aspiring business owners, including those interested in home-based and internet-based businesses. The focus on practical skills like business plan development, financial literacy, and pitch preparation equips participants with the essential tools needed to launch and sustain a new enterprise. The cash prizes offer vital seed funding, which can be a significant hurdle for new businesses. Furthermore, the program's culmination in a Small Business Expo creates a platform for networking, community recognition, and celebrating local entrepreneurial achievements, potentially attracting further investment and support for these nascent businesses. This initiative directly addresses the need for local economic diversification and job creation by nurturing a new generation of business leaders.
What's Next?
Applications for 'Pitch It Bladen County 2027' are currently open, with a deadline of December 11, 2026. Only 10–12 participants will be selected for the program. Classes will commence on January 12, 2027, at Bladen Community College. Participants are required to attend at least six of the eight classes, complete assignments, engage in individual counseling, and submit a final business plan and pitch presentation. Business plans and presentation decks are due by March 25, 2027, with selected finalists presenting their concepts on April 7. The program will conclude with the announcement of winners and a Small Business Expo on April 21, 2027. Interested individuals can request an application by contacting the Small Business Center at Bladen Community College or visiting their website. The program is sponsored by Vision Ag, Hilton Companies, Bladen Community College, and the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.
