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Press Release

Governor’s Conference business pitch competition gives Nevada startups a two minute shot at cash and prizes

Las Vegas, NV- Nevada-based startup companies looking for an opportunity to showcase their products or services while competing for a shot at cash and prizes should look no further. The Governor’s Conference on Business 2016 will again include a business pitch competition as part of the premiere business resource and networking conference. A two minute pitch in front of a panel of judges will net two entrepreneurs cash and prizes totaling $22,500. And for the first time, an audience vote will determine the winner of the People’s Choice Award and $1,000.

The competition, sponsored by AT&T;, Microsoft and Vast, is open to Nevada-based businesses that have been in operation two years or less and have less than $250,000 in annual gross revenue. The application process is open to businesses located anywhere within the State, but applicants must be able to travel to Las Vegas in late September to make a live pitch if selected as one of 10 finalists.

“This competition is a twist on the traditional pitch competitions. You need to already be in business with all of the necessary licenses and the entry is not limited to technology startups. Businesses from any and all industries are encouraged to apply,” said Bruce Breslow, Director of the Department of Business and Industry.

Key dates and details:
• To apply, a business must submit a $50 application fee and a completed application packet to the Department of Business and Industry by 5 p.m. August 19. The application fee also provides admission for one to the conference and luncheon.
• Competition judges will review and score all qualified submissions to select 10 finalists and two alternates.
• Ten finalists will make a two minute in-person pitch in front of the judge’s panel at the Governor’s Conference on Business 2016 on September 30, 2016.
• First, Second and People’s Choice awards and prizes will be announced and presented to the winners during the conference luncheon program.

Additional information about business pitch competition eligibility, application, rules and guidelines can be found at http://business.nv.gov/GCB/Home or by calling Karen Schnog at (702) 486-3755.

About the Governor’s Conference on Business 2016
The 5th annual Governor’s Conference on Business, hosted by the State of Nevada Department of Business and Industry, is a comprehensive business resource and networking event designed for businesses looking to grow or expand, and entrepreneurs seeking to launch a new venture. The event is taking place Friday, September 30 at the Rio Conference Center.

Conference participants will have access to 100+ business service providers, funders, development authorities, government entities and B2B companies at the Business Resource Expo. Networking opportunities are available throughout the morning and exhibitor registration for the Expo is open.

For the first time in Las Vegas, the conference will host a Business Pitch Competition. The winning companies will be awarded a cash and in-kind services prize package totaling $23,500 and recognition at the conference luncheon. A panel discussion on entrepreneurship for the next generation will also be held.

The conference will conclude with a luncheon featuring a special guest speakers Kristi Overgaard, EVP of Awesomeness, Adam Kramer, VP of Strategy from Switch and a keynote address by Governor Brian Sandoval.

Attendee tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Exhibitor registration is $275 for nonprofit and $375 for B2B. To learn more or to register, visit http://business.nv.gov/GCB/Home.

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