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Offering $200,000 in prizes – $25,000 in cash and $175,000 in professional services. Application closes on March 31st, 2024.
For the 12th year running, FirstOntario Credit Union and 1Awards partner to support small businesses and entrepreneurs via its FirstOntario 1Awards Pitch Competition.
About the Program
This year’s competition offers $200,000 in prizes ($25,000 in cash and $175,000 in professional services) to small businesses in the City of Hamilton, Region of Halton, City of Brantford, Niagara Region, or surrounding areas. Finalists will move on to the second round, where they will pitch their passion to a panel of judges, who will decide the prizes for the winning businesses.
Available Funding
$200,000 in prizes – $25,000 in cash and $175,000 in professional in-kind services from 1Awards partners
1Awards Partner List includes
Agro Zaffiro LLP
PLAY
Weever
KPMG
Giant Shoe Creative
Mohawk Centre for Entrepreneurship
The Hamilton Spectator
You can view more information about the partners here.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible,
Your business has been in continuous operation since January 1st, 2022.
Your business headquarters is located within the City of Hamilton, Region of Halton, City of Brantford, Niagara Region, or surrounding areas.
Your business is a corporation or registered business entity, and you have proof of incorporation and/or registration (as the case may be).
Your business is not a charitable corporation or not-for-profit organization.
Your business employs no more than 50 employees.
HOW TO APPLY
For more information on the pitch competition, guidelines, and FAQs, click the link below to navigate the FirstOntario Credit Union’s Website, review guidelines, complete the form, and submit your application.
DEADLINE
Applications for this program are due by March 31st, 2024.
As always, we will keep you posted on any relevant grant programs and opportunities for small businesses and organizations within the province!
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