BAY CITY, MI – The Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is extending the application deadline for Bay County entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners interested in competing in the annual Business by the Bay Pitch Competition. Applicants now have additional time to apply, with the new deadline set for Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

Due to strong interest and to ensure every eligible entrepreneur has the opportunity to participate, organizers have decided to extend the application window for one additional week. This extension provides local innovators more time to prepare and submit their materials.

Now in its fourth year, Business by the Bay offers local entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their business ideas, receive expert mentorship, and compete for a $5,000 top prize. The competition is designed to catalyze economic growth in Bay County by equipping startups with the resources, education, and exposure they need to succeed.

“This competition is about more than just the prize money,” said Michelle Judd, Michigan SBDC Consultant and lead organizer. “It’s a comprehensive program that guides entrepreneurs through a series of professional workshops—from marketing to financials—ensuring every participant walks away with a stronger business model and a polished pitch deck. By extending the deadline, we hope to give even more Bay County entrepreneurs the opportunity to take part.”

Who Should Apply?

The competition is open to entrepreneurs and small business owners whose principal location is in Bay County. Eligible businesses must be less than two years old (as of September 16, 2026) and have less than $1 million in annual sales.

The Journey to the Stage:

Selected applicants will participate in a series of mandatory in-person workshops held in Bay County to prepare them for the competition:

• March 18: Kick-Off Meeting
• April 15: Marketing Presentation Workshop
• May 20: Financial Presentation Workshop
• June 10: Pitch Deck Workshop

Following these sessions, five finalists will be selected to compete live in front of a panel of judges and a public audience on September 16, 2026, at the John Glenn High School Auditorium.

How to Apply:

Entrepreneurs are encouraged to take advantage of this extended deadline. For full eligibility requirements and to submit an application before the March 11 deadline, visit michigansbdc.org/business-by-the-bay.