Young entrepreneurs in Baxter and Marion counties have until Friday, October 23, to apply for The Hatchery, a free pitch competition that will award $5,000 in startup funds to four finalists. The contest is open to individuals or two-person teams aged 14 to 21 and welcomes entries for new business ideas, ventures still taking shape, or established businesses.
To participate, applicants must submit a short written description of their business or idea, along with a 2-3 minute video pitch. Applicants under 18 also need consent from a parent or legal guardian. All necessary forms and detailed competition guidelines can be found at enjoymountainhome.com/workforce-development.
Everyone who applies will receive feedback from judges, access to mentoring from local business leaders, and pitch-development resources, regardless of whether their entry advances. Those who move forward in the competition will participate in a live pitch event on Thursday, November 5, where judges will select four finalists. The final round will take place on Saturday, November 14, featuring a 3-5 minute presentation by each finalist, followed by a question-and-answer session with the judging panel.
Prize money will be distributed as follows: first place receives $2,000, second place $1,500, third place $1,000, and fourth place $500.
The Hatchery is organized by the Leadership Mountain Home Class of 2026 as its Community Impact Project. The class, part of the Mountain Home Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Vantive, designed the initiative to foster entrepreneurship, strengthen connections between youth and the local business community, and encourage the growth of future business leaders in north central Arkansas.