Shark Tank Clarksville: One start-up will win $10,000 at Pitch Masters convention

Someone in Clarksville will be $10,000 richer next week.

Eleven entrepreneurs and start-up business owners will pitch their ideas in a “Shark Tank”-like competition in front of companies and a panel of judges for a chance to win the $10,000 grand prize.

The Pitch Masters Tennessee convention is open to the public and will take place from noon-4 p.m. on Jan. 29 in the Winfield Dunn Center at Austin Peay State University.

Clarksville's Fat Shack Co-Founder Guy Stanford Jr. and John Crespo, owner of CFD Services Inc and Lendio Clarksville, partnered to create the competition in support the local business community.

And first place isn't the only cash prize up for grabs.

The second place pitcher will win $2,500, and the third place pitcher will win $1,500.

"I thank God that we are in position to help start up projects that need funding to get their business to the next level," Stanford Jr., said. "As an entrepreneur, I know what it’s like to need funding and exposure."

Crespo also said it feels amazing to be part of this opportunity as Clarksville is growing every day.

"We are attracting a wide array of talent and expertise that will continue to make us the place to be, so why not," he asked.

Here's how the competition works

Pitch Masters Tennessee competitors will have five minutes to pitch their business idea to a panel of five judges. The competitors will then have three minutes to answer any questions that panel may have.

Investors have the opportunity to assist other business professionals and become more aware of their new business concepts and ideas.

According to Stanford Jr., anyone in Tennessee was eligible to compete, but the majority of the competitors live in Clarksville.

The event is being funded through sponsorships, ticket sales and merchandising.

Ticket prices range from $25-75 for students, general admission and early birds and will grant access to the competition, business panel, guest speakers and networking opportunities.

From Clarksville City Mayor Joe Pitts to actor Markice Moore, there will be several pitch masters key note speakers. The event will be hosted by Angela Peterson.

The competition's judges are:

• Stella Velle co-owners Paige Dellavalle and Ashley Dellavalle-Jung

• INFINITYCO President Jaquar Mcmickle

• Patty Hemmingsen, of Fortera Credit Union

• Kacie Bryant, co-founder and director of Local Clarksville

"We want the community to expect an amazing experience filled with golden nuggets of information along with jam packed entertainment," Crespo said.

"This event is meant to highlight the diverse talent we have in our small business community."

Both partners expect Pitch Masters to become an annual event, with additional offerings beyond the convention. The pair said they're planning a series of small pitch competitions throughout the year, leading up the convention.

They hope the annual opportunity will become a pathway for aspiring entrepreneurs, Sanford said.

"I am so committed to making Clarksville the most innovative city in the world," he added.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.pitchmasterstn.com.

Alexis Clark can be reached at aclark@gannett.com or 931-217-8519.

This article originally appeared on Clarksville Leaf-Chronicle: Pitch Masters convention: Someone in Clarksville will be $10,000 richer