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Wheeling Heritage Opens Applications for 2025 Show of Hands Event

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WHEELING, W.Va. – March 12, 2024 – Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members with big ideas for Wheeling now have the opportunity to bring their vision to life. Wheeling Heritage is accepting applications for the next Show of Hands, a high-energy crowdfunding event that provides funding and exposure to local projects. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Wheeling Artisan Center, 1400 Main Street.

Applications are open through Friday, April 11, and can be submitted at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

What is Show of Hands? Sponsored by Orrick, Show of Hands is a community-driven event where four finalists present their ideas to a live audience, who then vote to decide which project will receive funding. The winner typically receives upwards of $4,000 in prize money, made possible through sponsorships and audience contributions. With this event, Show of Hands will exceed $150,000 in total funding awarded, supporting local businesses and initiatives that have contributed to Wheeling’s economic growth for over a decade.

Why Apply? Beyond funding, Show of Hands offers valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and community support. Finalists gain the chance to showcase their projects in front of a diverse audience, including potential customers, investors, and collaborators. Additionally, each of the four finalists will have the opportunity to work with a mentor on refining their presentation skills, plus receive a professionally produced 90-second video highlighting their business and project.

“If you’ve never been to Show of Hands, you absolutely have to experience it! It’s an incredible night where you get to support local small businesses and witness the power of community coming together. For just a $5 voter fee, you’re not only getting appetizers, entertainment, and a cash bar, but you’re also making a direct influence on the future of Wheeling. It’s the perfect mid-week date night or friends’ night out—an affordable, fun way to help our local entrepreneurs thrive!” shares Riley Carpenter, director of heritage programming at Wheeling Heritage. 

“Wheeling Heritage is proud to host this impactful event. We can’t thank Orrick enough for their support, along with all the Friends of Show of Hands. This is a great example of how working together with the community can make a difference,” said Scott Schenerlein, executive director of Wheeling Heritage.

How It Works:

  1. Submit a Proposal: Applications close April 11. A committee will select four finalists.
  2. Pitch Your Idea: Finalists will present their projects at the event on May 21. Each has four minutes to pitch, followed by a brief Q&A session.
  3. Audience Votes: Attendees contribute a $5 donation at the door, adding to the prize pool, and vote for their favorite idea.
  4. Winner Announced: The project with the most votes wins the funding and community backing.

Don’t miss this chance to gain support, secure funding, and make a lasting impact in Wheeling.

Want to make a direct impact on Wheeling’s small business community? Become a Friend of Show of Hands Sponsor and help local entrepreneurs bring their visions to life! To learn more, contact Riley Carpenter at rcarpenter@wheelingheritage.org or (304) 232-3087.

For event details or to apply, visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.

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