Young residents of Baxter and Marion counties have until Friday, October 23, to apply for The Hatchery, a pitch competition awarding $5,000 in startup funding this fall. The contest is open to individuals and teams aged 14 to 21 and is free to enter.

Organized as part of the Leadership Mountain Home Class of 2026’s Community Impact Project, The Hatchery aims to encourage youth to explore entrepreneurship as a way to create opportunities locally, according to organizers. The Mountain Home Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event through its workforce development program.

To apply, entrants must submit a short written description of their business or idea, along with a two- to three-minute pitch video. For participants under age 18, a signed parent or guardian consent form is also required. All necessary forms and the application are available on the Chamber’s website at enjoymountainhome.com/workforce-development.

The competition welcomes various stages of development, including brand-new concepts, evolving ventures, or established businesses. Teams of up to two people are permitted. Organizers stress that participants do not need a polished idea to qualify, as the program also emphasizes mentoring, feedback, and pitch-building resources for all applicants, regardless of whether their pitch advances in the contest.

Judges will evaluate applications to select participants for a preliminary live pitch round on Thursday, November 5. Four finalists chosen from this round will advance to the final event on Saturday, November 14, where they will have three to five minutes to present and answer questions from the judging panel.

All finalists will receive cash prizes, with $2,000 awarded for first place, $1,500 for second, $1,000 for third, and $500 for fourth. While the financial incentives are significant, the class emphasizes their broader goal of inspiring young people to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path within the community.

Leadership Mountain Home is a yearlong program sponsored by Vantive and managed by the Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce. Participants in the program engage in studies of regional organizations, industries, and challenges while working on projects designed to leave lasting benefits for the area.

Anyone with questions about The Hatchery can contact the Chamber of Commerce at 870-425-5111.