Entrepreneurial Alliance Holds First Ever 'Shark Tank' Meeting

University students and other entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to practice pitching their business ideas to a panel of judges in a “Shark Tank” format on Wednesday, March 19.

There will be a short reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by the main event at 6:00 p.m. FNC, Inc. has agreed to host this event for the Entrepreneurial Alliance. Innovate Mississippi will be a primary sponsor of the event. The event will be at FNC headquarters located at 1214 Office Park Drive in Oxford.
Based off the popular ABC television show “Shark Tank”, the shark tank format has a panel of judges known as “Sharks” who will give the participants constructive criticism on their ideas. The “Sharks” that have agreed to participate in the event in Oxford come from a wide variety of business backgrounds.
These investors, or “Sharks”, will listen as the start-up pitches their idea and business plan, and they will help guide that budding business in a more successful direction.
“This is a great opportunity for people with an idea for a start up to get a solid foundation for launching their business.” says Jon Maynard, President and CEO of the Oxford – Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development
Foundation. “With the experts that we have slated as our ‘Sharks’, the advice that will be given will be proven in the real world. This is a fantastic opportunity for even those in the audience to learn from successful entrepreneurs.”
The event will also allow students to practice their pitch before the semi-final round of the School of Business Gillespie Business Plan Competition on March 21.
The public is encouraged to attend this event to see just how much entrepreneurial talent we have here in Oxford. Those interested in participating should submit a one to two page executive summary of their business idea to Jon Maynard at jon@oxfordms.com by 5 p.m. on March 17. Five- ten entrepreneurs will be chosen to deliver three to five minute pitches at the event. No experience is needed!
“What we have to offer entrepreneurs in Oxford, comes primarily from the success and mentoring from other successful entrepreneurs,” says Maynard. “We have found that when asked, they are eager to help others succeed. They provide a wealth of knowledge and experience from which others can benefit.”
About the Entrepreneurial Alliance
The Entrepreneurial Alliance is sponsored by the Oxford- Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation and The Oxford- Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and holds monthly and quarterly meetings to bring together individuals to help grow entrepreneurial efforts in Oxford and surrounding areas.