The Tank
�� What is "The Tank"?
Conceived before the pandemic and officially launched in 2023, The Tank is a small business pitch contest designed to fulfill the Chamber’s mission of fostering and promoting entrepreneurship in Harrison County — and now beyond. Think of it as a regional “Shark Tank,” where local entrepreneurs pitch their best business ideas for a chance to win a grand prize package valued at over $40,000.
HARRISON COUNTY CHAMBER
Supporting Entrepreneurs Across North Central West Virginia
The Harrison County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the return of "The Tank" Entrepreneur Pitch Contest for its third year — now open to small business entrepreneurs from across North Central West Virginia!
North Central West Virginia Small Business Entrepreneurs
�� 2025: Regional Growth & Opportunities
This year, The Tank is expanding to entrepreneurs across North Central West Virginia, based on the Chamber’s belief that “when one entrepreneur succeeds, the entire region benefits.”
�� Applications Now Open
➤ Visit: www.harrisoncountychamber.com
➤ Click the "The Tank" tab to access the application and rules
➤ Deadline to apply: July 31, 2025
Participating in The Tank offers more than a cash prize it’s a springboard to community support, publicity, expert coaching, and access to invaluable local resources.
2023Winner PawsUp
Paws Up, created by Randy Spellman and Dan Avolio under DRI, LLC, was named the winner of the 2023 “The Tank” entrepreneur contest in Harrison County, West Virginia Their innovative product a specialty pet towel designed to simplify the drying and cleaning of pets impressed the judges with its practical appeal and market potential As winners, they received a prize package worth over $30,000, including $10,000 in cash and a variety of professional services such as marketing, legal, and accounting support The award aims to help local entrepreneurs scale their businesses and bring innovative ideas to market within the region
�� "Winning
2024 Winner Pixie Sweets by Jess
Pixie Sweets by Jess, a Clarksburg-based dessert business, won the 2024 Harrison County “The Tank” entrepreneur contest, securing a $40,000 prize package that included $10,000 in cash Founded by selftaught baker Jess, Pixie Sweets offers handcrafted treats like cookies, cakes, gummies, and marshmallows, blending creativity with quality ingredients With over 13 years of experience, Jess collaborates with Rj, a classically trained chef and sommelier, to deliver unique culinary experiences The duo also launched "Pixie Sweets & Eats," a mobile food venture, expanding their reach in the local community. Their victory highlights the impact of local entrepreneurship in West Virginia
