ABOUT HATCH

Since 2012, Chippewa Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has been helping startups. CEDC’s entrepreneurial program consists of mentoring, coaching, networking, and encouraging activities to help startups develop. The centerpiece of the CEDC “helping entrepreneurs program” is the annual HATCH Idea Pitch Competition (HATCH).

Launched in 2018, HATCH is a focal point for encouraging and supporting the local startup ecosystem. This dynamic event provides a platform for entrepreneurs and innovators to present their unique business concepts to a distinguished panel of judges and a captivated audience. Coinciding with both Wisconsin Startup Week and Chippewa Valley Startup Week, this November event has become a cornerstone in celebrating innovation.

HATCH FOR ENTREPRENEURS

HATCH is a launchpad for entrepreneurs, offering a platform to refine their business pitch and plans and connect with capital sources. The program awards cash prizes to the best pitches, exposing entrepreneurs to experienced judges, potential capital, and valuable connections with angel investors. Applications are accepted from both clients and the public, with a call for applications typically released in October.

HATCH FOR CHIPPEWA VALLEY BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

CEDC collaborates with all of Chippewa Valley’s community business organizations. These organizations can nominate and submit their own best pitch contestant, securing a slot in the competition.

Past participating organizations include

• UW-Eau Claire
• Red Letter Grant
• Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation
• Small Business Development Corporation of Eau Claire
• CoLab/The Coven of Eau Claire
• Chippewa Valley Technical College
• Chippewa Falls Schools
• St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center
• UW-Stout

All the local business and academic organizations that participate underscore the collaborative spirit that makes Chippewa Valley an ideal place for startups to flourish.

HATCH FOR ANGEL & VENTURE CAPITALISTS

Investors gain insight into the thriving Chippewa Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem, are first to experience innovative business ideas and discover investment opportunities in HATCH’s intimate setting. They get to connect with fellow investors, local businesses, and community leaders. Relationships are forged that transcend the event and pave the way for future partnerships. HATCH’s dynamic, high-stakes showcase could lead to groundbreaking investments. This event is where hidden gems are discovered to invest in your community.

HATCH FOR SPONSORS

HATCH offers rich sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations that share our commitment to supporting the entrepreneur and innovation ecosystem in Chippewa Valley, as our sponsor dollars often determine the amount of our Grand Prize check! Typical perks include lots of recognition – pre-, during, and post-promotions, publicity, signage, media, and more – and a physical presence at the event. Besides the perks of being featured in this high-profile event, sponsorship generates top-of-mind awareness for companies among leading venture capitalists, investment bankers, corporate/private investors, and senior executives of emerging companies. Email admin@chippewa-wi.com for the current HATCH Sponsorship one-pager.

HATCH FAQ

Q: How can I apply to pitch my business idea?

A: Email us at admin@chippewa-wi.com for an application.

Q: What is the application deadline?

A: The application deadline is typically the Tuesday the week before the event. For those selected to pitch, slide decks need to be submitted by that Friday.

Q: How can I become a sponsor of this event?

A: Email us at admin@chippewa-wi.com for sponsorship details.

Q: What if I can’t attend in person?

A: We did a beta test of Pay-per-Zoom in 2023. Watch for future improvements. Those participating as contestants are required to attend in person.

Q: What is the typical timeline of the event?

A: HATCH traditionally takes place on a weeknight at a local business venue. Generally, it starts with a reception and kicks off with an introduction of CEDC, our sponsors, participating community business organizations, and our judges, followed by a short keynote talk by an established local business owner. Then, the pitches take place. After each five-minute pitch, our judges can ask questions about the entrepreneur and their idea. After the last pitch, the judges go to a separate room to deliberate while the audience can vote for their favorite. When judges return, the Grand Prize winner and Audience Choice winners are announced, and photos are taken.