Bay City, MI — Time is running out! The Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is sounding the alarm for Bay County entrepreneurs: applications for the 2025 Business by the Bay Pitch Competition will close on August 13 at 5:00 p.m. sharp. If you’ve been thinking about applying, now’s the time to act.
This highly anticipated event offers a unique opportunity for emerging entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners in Bay County to compete for a share of $11,000 in cash prizes, all while sharpening their business skills and growing their network.
“The Michigan SBDC and Business by the Bay Pitch gave me all the tools I needed to fine-tune my plan, build my confidence, and move my business forward,” says Jena Monville, owner of Princess and the Hound Pet Grooming Salon and 1st place winner of the 2023 competition. “Winning the pitch helped me get my salon wrapped—now that’s my marketing, and it brought me a full client list.”
Applications opened May 14, but the window is closing fast — don’t miss your chance to participate in this business-boosting experience.
Participants selected for the program will receive:
- Practical training on marketing, finances, and pitching
- Personalized feedback and coaching from business experts
- Hands-on help developing a professional pitch deck
- Valuable connections with local mentors and business leaders
The live pitch finale will be held Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at John Glenn High School Auditorium in Bay City. Five finalists will pitch their ideas live before a panel of judges — and the community — in hopes of securing funding and support.
“Our past participants have had a very positive experience with the pitch competition. Not only do they build skills, but they also grow their peer network and brand awareness.”-Michelle Judd
Who Can Apply:
Eligible applicants must:
- Be entrepreneurs, small business owners, or early-stage companies based in Bay County, MI
- Have a business less than two years old as of November 13, 2025, with under $1 million in annual sales
- Be at least 16 years old
Note: Certain businesses, including nonprofits, marijuana-related, gambling/lending/investment ventures, or past winners, are not eligible.
Participation Requirements:
Selected applicants must attend in-person workshops in Bay County, including:
- August 27 – Kick-Off & Overview
- September 10 – Marketing Workshop
- September 17 – Financials Workshop
- October 1 – Pitch Deck Workshop
Finalists will be chosen after submitting pitch decks for virtual judging. This isn’t just a pitch competition — it’s a launchpad for Bay County entrepreneurs.
Act now — apply online before August 13 at 5:00 p.m.: https://michigansbdc.org/business-by-the-bay
