The Downeast Business Boot Camp & Pitch-Off is a collaborative effort of resource partners in Washington and Hancock counties designed to encourage, engage and create community for Downeast entrepreneurs.

A six-day intensive (non-consecutive) training + prep program for early-stage business owners leading up to a final pitch for prize money. Young enterprises in operation from 1- 3 years will strengthen their business confidence in a collaborative atmosphere as they compete in a final judged pitch event. Each enterprise team will work with an assigned mentor to hone their business and presentation skills needed to grow a sustainable business.

The next Downeast Bootcamp will be held in 2024. If you are interested in knowing when future rounds are open, fill out the form below:

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WHO can apply?

Any small business in Hancock or Washington county in operation for 1 – 5 years with an average of 20 employees or less and a revenue cap of $500,000. Six businesses will be chosen to participate with two participants from each enterprise. (Owner +1)

To be eligible to apply, enterprises must meet the following criteria:

• Business owners who are eager to improve the sustainability of their business
• Small Businesses in Hancock or Washington Counties (Year-round businesses will be given preference) Any small business in operation for 1 – 5 years with 20 employees  or less, and a revenue cap of $500,000.
• Access to internet and a reliable computer (or willingness to work with the Bootcamp committee to arrange for accessibility at one of our partner satellite locations)
• Two people will represent your enterprise and commit to attend the entire schedule of six afternoon meetings online between March 4th- March 25th, plus 2-3 additional check-ins with your assigned mentor TBD according to your convenience. The final pitch competition takes place on March 25th at the end of the day.

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WHAT will I learn?

Business essentials from mentors and small business advisors, including marketing, financials, creating your value, defining and projecting for success, and more.

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WHERE will the Boot Camp meet?

Meet online as a cohort on the afternoons (2 – 5 p.m.) of March 4^th,15^th,18^th,22^nd,24^th, (additional mentor meet-ups TBD in between as needed) and the final Pitch event on March 25^th

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WIN!

The Boot Camp culminates with a live online Pitch competition. A combination of cash and in-kind services will be awarded to two winners chosen by a panel of judges, and one audience choice.

1^st Place: $5,000

2^nd Place: $3,500

Audience Choice: $5,000

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How do I apply?

The next Downeast Bootcamp will be held in 2024. If you are interested in knowing when future rounds are open, fill out the form below:

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