About Big Idea.
It’s like Shark Tank, kind of.
There’s an idea. There’s a panel of “sharks”. There’s also an audience, access to resources, and money.
Big Idea is our version of Shark Tank. Ideas are submitted in advance, narrowed down to a group of finalists, and ideas are pitched LIVE in front of an audience and panel of judges. Pitches must be 2 minutes or less. Each pitch is followed by a Q&A.
Top ideas will win access and discounts to key resources, business coaching and planning services, and startup money to launch their business in Hastings! Our panel of judges determines the top 5 and popular vote (yes, the audience) determines who takes home the top 3 cash prizes!
PITCH NIGHT 2023
TUES, NOV 7TH—
SOCIAL STARTS @ 5:30 PM
PITCHES START @ 6:30 PM
@ THE LARK
809 WEST 2ND STREET / DOWNTOWN HASTINGS
The basics.
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When is it?
Big Idea Hastings is happening on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023 at the Lark in Downtown Hastings. Social will start at 5:30 PM and pitch night will start at 6:30 PM.
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What ideas are accepted?
Business or product ideas for Hastings (and beyond...eventually). It can be retail-based, technology-driven, a product invention, food service, service-based, etc. The sky is the limit!
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When does idea submission open and close?
Idea submission opens on Saturday, July 1st and close on Monday, October 9th at midnight. Click here for idea submission.
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Who can submit?
You must be 19 years or older to submit an idea. Not 19 or older? If your idea is accepted, we’ll just need your parent’s permission. We encourage students, locals, retirees, and anywhere in between to submit an idea.
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Will this be in-person?
Yes, at the Lark in Downtown Hastings! If you've been to this event before, you know the energy in the room is contagious and inspiring. Being in-person is an important aspect to Big Idea and it wouldn't feel the same behind a screen.
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Are there prizes?
You bet there are! All finalists receive something including gift bags, access to professional services, and startup cash! Plus, the networking and connections you receive at this event is invaluable. Scroll down for details.
The prizes.
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Top 3
Determined by Popular Vote
Cash prizes.
Professional Services Package.
includes access & discounts to a variety of local services including legal, accounting, business coaching and planning assistance, marketing, insurance, and more
Gift bags.
Invaluable networking & connections.
Greater awareness of idea.
Community input.
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Top 5
Determined by Judges
Professional Services Package.
includes access & discounts to a variety of local services including legal, accounting, business coaching and planning assistance, marketing, insurance, and more
Gift bags.
Invaluable networking & connections.
Greater awareness of idea.
Community input.
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All Finalists
Gift bags.
Invaluable networking & connections.
Greater awareness of their idea.
Community input.