Celebrating a decade of entrepreneurship

Neepawa Economic development to host 10th annual What’s the Big Idea?

By Casper Wehrhahn Neepawa Banner & Press

Neepawa is once again preparing to feature up and coming business ideas. On Oct. 16, Neepawa Economic Development will be hosting the 10th annual edition of What’s the Big Idea? It will be held at the Neepawa Legion from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with all members of the public welcome to attend.

“What’s the Big Idea? showcases the next businesses operating in our communities,” said Marilyn Crewe, economic development officer for Neepawa. “[Attending the event] is a great way to support entrepreneurship. If you can’t come for the whole day, the Pitch Parlour starts at 1:00 p.m.”

Inspired by the Canadian television program Dragon’s Den, this event invites entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas for new, or expanding, businesses. It also provides monetary support to the entrepreneurs, as they have the chance to receive grants for their propositions.

“Plans are coming together and there will be over $60,000 in cash  prizes available to be won,” said Crewe. “I am working with six startup businesses to pitch at this year’s Big Idea.”

Crewe also noted that, as this is a landmark year for What’s the Big Idea?, Economic Development is also planning to host a special celebration with the entrepreneurs.

“This year is our special 10th anniversary so there will be an evening dinner with all our past participants, who are still in business, invited to come and celebrate,” Crewe explained.

Crewe added, “In contacting all the businesses since our first event in 2015, I have found that 36 of the 57 businesses are still in operation in some way. This is a 63 per cent success rate compared to the national average of 50 per cent after five years and 33 per cent after 10 years.”

As the community and surrounding area waits to see what this year’s feature ideas are, entrepreneurs still have a chance to register and participate. Any entrepreneurs intending to register are asked to contact Marilyn Crewe at the Economic Development Office, either via phone (204-476-7607) or email (edo@neepawa.ca). The deadline to apply is Thursday, Oct. 9.