Athene Black & Brown Business Summit Pitch Competition Now Accepting Applications

The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce (WDM Chamber) has announced that it is now accepting applications for the 2023 Athene Black & Brown Business Summit (BBBS) pitch competition, brought to you by exclusive pitch competition partner Bank of America. The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, March 1 by 5 p.m.

The Athene BBBS pitch competition is open to businesses that are 51% minority-owned, have been in operation for at least two years, and are for-profit. Selected participants will be invited to participate in workshops featuring area experts, and have the opportunity to win part of a cash prize given to the companies with the best pitches. Over the past two years, pitch competition winners have received a total of $52,000 in prize money.

Last year's pitch competition saw 40 minority-owned businesses participate, with 10 of them winning cash prizes. Lumena Energy took first place and won $12,000, while Autistic & Loved won second place and $10,000, and Stagerie, Inc. took third place and $6,000. Additional pitch winners also won $2,000.

The Athene BBBS pitch competition is an excellent opportunity for minority-owned businesses to showcase their work and network with experts in their field. The summit provides a space for participants to connect with other business owners and industry professionals, and learn about resources and programs available to help them grow their businesses.

The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in business. They aim to foster an environment in which all businesses can thrive, regardless of their size, ownership, or industry.

Those interested in applying to participate in the pitch competition can view the application on the WDM Chamber website. Additionally, learn more about the Athene BBBS and purchase tickets for the event on their website.