Five Prince George entrepreneurs have left the city’s Titans’ Den with a combined $9,850 in seed money.
On Oct. 29, nine prospective businesspeople pitched their ideas to an assortment of local business leaders to the tune of CBC's Dragons' Den.
All walked away with valuable advice and increased business savvy, but only five managed to convince the 'Titans' to fund their entrepreneurial aspirations.
However, unlike the television show, the 'Titans' are not allowed to take any stake or control in successful projects, and the event is not televised or conducted in public.
These unpublicized business meccas instead contribute their own money towards concepts they feel have serious potential.
“Participating in the Titans event has been an invigorating experience for me. I was very nervous as it was completely out of my comfort zone,” says participant Amanda Robertson in a news release, who walked away with roughly $2,250 in support for her idea for a freeze-dried dog treat business.
“I almost cancelled out of fear that my presentation wasn't impressive enough, but I am immensely grateful to have found my courage again. The Titans were amazing, and the feedback was eye-opening and thought-provoking.”
In total, the city received 20 submissions from prospective entrepreneurs, including students, inventors and 'side business' operators.
“It is exciting to see entrepreneurs from all walks of life exploring ideas that could grow into sustainable businesses and to connect entrepreneurs to mentors and potential funding opportunities, as well as one another,” says City Manager of Economic Development Melissa Barcellos.
As Titans' Den was a pilot project, the City of Prince George will be reviewing the results and making a determination about whether to host additional Titans' Den events in the new year.
Local entrepreneurs, and business people who are interested in supporting entrepreneurs, or anyone who wishes to learn more are asked to contact Allan Stroet by email, allan.stroet@princegeorge.ca, or by calling 250-561-7582.
