The Six County Entrepreneurial Support Network (ESN) has made the tough decision to postpone the May 12, 2020, Six County Fast Pitch Competition due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we hope that our communities will be back to normal operations by that time, we want to ensure that all of our competitors and sponsors are able to fully participate in the event safely.
Entrepreneurs who have submitted an application to compete have been contacted. Previously submitted applications will be held for the competition to take place at a future date to be announced.
Due to the competition being postponed, applications may continue to be submitted. There is no cost to apply. Simply fill out an application form online. The application asks:
• For your name and contact information
• To verify which of the six counties you either reside in, own a business in or attend school in
• Which category you are entering (ie: New Business, Business Expansion, or Student)
• To give a brief background about yourself and/or your business
Potential contestants who have completed the application will be given an opportunity to participate in a mock/practice Fast Pitch session before the actual contest to receive feedback and tips on their presentation.
The 2020 Six County Fast Pitch contestants will be eligible to compete for prizes including cash, advertising, and professional and small business consultation to help them turn their ideas into reality! It is open to adult residents, current business owners, and student entrepreneurs in high school and college located the Illinois counties of Henderson, Henry, Knox, Mercer, Stark and Warren. The categories include: Existing Business Expansion which is open to any current business owner in the six counties; New Retail/Service Business, New Manufacturing/Fabrication Business; and Student Entrepreneur which is a new category this year giving those in high school or college a chance to share their business ideas.
Once all of our ESN members and partners are operating under normal conditions again, a complete schedule including new entry deadlines, practice sessions, and event dates will be determined. More information on the Six County Fast Pitch Competition can be found online.