In an innovative approach to community development and social entrepreneurship, the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas is again hosting "The Pitch" on Thursday, May 2.
Likened to a heart-driven version of the television hit "Shark Tank," the eighth annual engaging event will see five local nonprofit start-ups competing for a substantial sum of funding to empower their world-changing initiatives.
With $275,000 in prize money up for grabs, the competition is a high-stakes affair attracting not only local innovators but also an enthusiastic public audience.
"It’s just like any great competition, world-class talent is involved," explained Jennifer Sampson, CEO of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
Set to take place at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving, the event has attracted the interest and support of prominent figures from the sporting world and major corporations.
“We’ve recruited pro football hall of famer Drew Pearson, Dallas Stars great Marty Turco, and FC Dallas legend Kenny Cooper, Jr. to serve as our celebrity judges,” Sampson shared. They will be evaluating the pitches alongside key executives from Amazon and PNC, who are also sponsoring the event.
“It is an edge of your seat kind of live show," Sampson added. "We’ll engage the audience to decide its own winner."
A live audience vote will decide a $30,000 Audience Choice Award.
To get your ticket to the event, click here.
The finalists for this year promise a range of innovative solutions to critical issues facing the community. From Healthy Hip Hop, which engages students through dance, and Delighted to Doula, which provides essential maternal and infant care, to Tech Savvy DFW focusing on STEM education, each contestant is poised to showcase how they aim to impact North Texas positively.
"They’re all working to find solutions to our community’s most pressing problems,” Sampson said.
The finalists include:
Roy Scott, Healthy Hip Hop
Prinscilla Moore, Delighted to Doula
Courtney Hamilton, Tech Savvy DFW
Cessilye Smith, Abide Women’s Health Services
Robin Head, Entryway DFW
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