Non-Profit Organization Tours the U.S. Giving Hopeful Entrepreneurs Money to Pursue their Dreams
From the Wallstreet protests to just about every business column, blog, and news publication, one message is clear; we are living amidst a tough and unforgiving economy. It is a time of great misfortune for the middle to lower class groups, not only in the United States, but across the globe. With gray global economic forecasts, upcoming U.S. Presidential elections, and rapid paced industry transformations, there is no longer a clear income model present for the average American. The job market is tough and employers have increasing expectations of talent at all levels within a company. Regardless of your professional, academic, or socio-economic background, it is a general consensus that we are experiencing a shift away from traditional views on wealth creation and retirement planning.
Magnus Greaves and Lucas Riggins, founders of the non-profit organization “100 Urban Entrepreneurs” (www.100urbanentrepreneurs.org) understands this transformation, and they are traveling the country to be an influential force within the entrepreneurship community. By organizing 60 second pitch tour contests, this organization is traveling across the country to rewarding lucky entrepreneurs $10,000 in seed capital and access to cross industry professionals in a structured mentoring program. The 100 Urban Entrepreneurs organization is breathing life into the economy by providing the front-line resources necessary for urban entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams of business ownership.
On September 27, 2011 at the University of Akron Entrepreneurship Summit in (Akron, Ohio), anxious entrepreneurs stood before a panelist of judges from the 100UE organization and LRMR (Marketing and Branding Firm in Cleveland, Ohio owned by Lebron James), and presented their 60 second pitches on why they should fund their businesses.
Hosted by Black Enterprise’s own Shannon Lanier, candidates received constructive criticism and encouragement from all of the participating judges. Although only two entrepreneurs were each awarded $10,000 on that day, there was something bigger that occurred that day. Individuals with backgrounds that would have arguably never attracted the attention of traditional investors or venture capitalists were given exposure and networking opportunities all of which could be used beyond that day.
The future economy will not address people’s job needs in the ways of the past; instead, people will focus more attention on the “creation” of new opportunities, instead of relying on roles to be provided on their behalf. This is not to suggest that everyone will be equipped to become a groundbreaking industry change agent, however one indisputable truth is that retirement planning is becoming less dependent upon corporate 401k plans, and more driven by transactions such as the establishment, buying, or selling of innovative, and highly competitive businesses.
If you would like more information on the 100 Urban Entrepreneurs organization and how you too can have a chance to win $10,000 for your business, take a look at their website www.100urbanentrepreneurs.org.
You can also view samples of past pitch contests by watching the video below: