Wheeling Heritage announced that applications are now open for the next Show of Hands event on September 25. Aspiring entrepreneurs and community members are encouraged to submit their applications by August 19 for an opportunity to turn their business ideas into reality.
Sponsored by Orrick, Show of Hands is a crowd-funding initiative to empower local entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses. Businesses are encouraged to apply, whether to launch a new business, expand an existing one, or undertake a project to enrich the Wheeling community.
The third and final Show of Hands event of the 2024 season will take place Wednesday, September 25, at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling. This event offers a unique opportunity for local entrepreneurs to receive financial support raised through event sponsorships and donations collected during the event.
“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Show of Hands, we are continually inspired by the creativity and dedication of our local entrepreneurs,” said Scott Schenerlein, executive director of Wheeling Heritage. “This program fosters a sense of community and supports the innovative ideas that contribute to Wheeling’s growth. We’re excited to see the new projects and the positive impact they will have on our community.”
Here’s how Show of Hands works:
Submit Your Proposal: Interested candidates must submit applications to wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands/, by August 19. A committee will review submissions and select four finalists to advance to the presentation round.
Present Your Idea: Finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their projects to the community at the Show of Hands event on September 25. Each presenter will have four minutes to make a pitch for the show winnings, followed by a brief Q&A session with the audience.
Vote for Your Favorite: Attendees pay $5 at the door, which contributes to the total prize pool. After hearing all the presentations, attendees vote for their favorite project.
Celebrate Success: The project with the most votes receives prize money – typically around $4,500 – provided by event sponsors and donations collected at the door.
Join us for an inspiring evening of innovation and collaboration and be a supporter of Wheeling’s entrepreneurial community.
For more information and to apply, visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands/.
