Hub Staff

The Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is once again pleased to partner with the Bruce Community Futures Development Corporation (Bruce CFDC) in bringing Hawks' Nest back to the region.

In a Dragons' Den inspired competition, entrepreneurs from the Bruce, Grey, Minto, and Wellington North regions will pitch their business ideas for a chance to secure financial support from local investors, known as Hawks.

Entrepreneurs are invited to attend free virtual business plan training sessions this January. Once finished plans are submitted, seven entrepreneurs, including one youth entrepreneur, will be chosen to proceed and will receive pitch training to prepare for the final event at Owen Sound's Roxy Theatre May 17.

Each investor commits to a minimum $5,000 value investment in one or more of the competitors' business plans. These investments are at the discretion of each Hawk.

“We are excited to once again bring the Hawks’ Nest to the Grey, Bruce, Owen Sound, Minto and Wellington North areas,” said Rose Austin, General Manager, SEDC. “This event continues to support local economic growth and provide a development opportunity for new businesses and local business expansions," Austin said.

"We are very pleased to be involved in this important project,” said Barb Fisher, General Manager for the Bruce CFDC. “We see this as a great way to reach out to entrepreneurs, so they can bring their enthusiasm to the Hawks for consideration of their new or expanding business.”

Entrepreneurs with a new business idea are required to attend the business plan training. Those presenting a business expansion are also encouraged to attend so that they present in accordance with the training template.

Pre-registration is required for all attendees. Business plan training will take place on January 10 from 9am to 4pm, January 18 from 9am to 4pm and January 21 from 9am to 4pm. A Youth Only session will be held on January 14 from 1pm to 4pm.

Entrepreneurs can register by emailing hawksnest@sbdc.ca.

Deadline for submissions for the final event is March 10, 2023.