“Shark Tank” style competition open to locals

News

Thursday, 13 March 2025 12:24

The Singing River Trail Launch Tank is a “Shark Tank” style competition offering prizes and recognition for talented entrepreneurs from nine counties across North Alabama.
Launch is partnering with Singing River Trail to present the fourth annual SRT Launch Tank competition. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas live to hundreds of business leaders, public officials, and the people in the community. Finalists will receive non-dilutive funding and direct introductions to programs and resources tailored to support their business needs. There is currently up to $25,000 in cash and prizes available to winners of this competition.

Applications for local entrepreneurs looking to turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses opened on January 15 and will close on March 23.

Judges from across North Alabama will score your application on a variety of criteria that may include business viability, sustainability, innovation, and impact on the region. Applicants are encouraged to submit supporting documentation such as a business plan or presentation to better describe the idea/business.

Modeled after the popular reality TV show Shark Tank, the competition allows finalists to deliver live pitches to a panel of local judges in front of a live audience. Finalists will receive guidance and support ahead of the competition to help them prepare and refine their presentations for the big event.

All finalists will be announced on April 2. The SRT Launch Tank event, where selected finalist will pitch their business concept in front of a live audience, will be held at the Goose Pond Civic Center on April 23.

This competition is open to residents and employees who either work or live in Colbert, Jackson Dekalb, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marshall or Morgan County.

“Each year, Launch Tank brings something truly special to the table. I’m always amazed by the creativity and drive of our participants. We’re excited to provide more entrepreneurs with the resources, connections, and funding they need to thrive,” said SRT Launch Tank Co-Chair and Executive Director of Tourism for the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce in Jackson County, Lydia Pennington.

Finalists will receive personalized introductions to programs and resources tailored to their unique business needs, along with the opportunity to win non-dilutive funding.
Winners will be announced at the event.

Winners from past competitions include:
Flirty Flame Candle Company, founded by Sherry Jefferson of Limestone County. In addition to winning the top cash prize, Jefferson received entrepreneurial training to develop her business further.

Michael and Elizabeth Webb pitched a mobile skin cancer evaluation program called Check My Spot, To reserve a spot to watch the competition and to submit your application, which they initially tested with students at Oakwood University. They utilized the exposure from the competition to further collaborate with local businesses.

Rocket City Electric Bike Rentals also took home a grand prize for their user friendly electric bike rental service aimed at city exploration.

To apply or attend the event, please visit https://launchtnvalley.org/entrepreneurship/launch-tank/