The Venture Center and Economics Arkansas host First Ever Pitch ‘N Punch for Young Innovators

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 6, 2023) – Entrepreneurship knows no age, which is why The Venture Center is partnering with Economics Arkansas to host the first-ever Pitch ‘N Punch on July 27 at the Museum of Discovery in downtown Little Rock. An innovative competition with a fun atmosphere, incoming 5th-8th grade students are invited to participate and learn about entrepreneurship and the fundamentals of pitching. 

Pitch ‘N Punch embodies the same enterprising spirit as The Venture Center’s adult pitching competition, Pitch ‘N Pint, providing an opportunity for Arkansas youth to express creativity and innovation. Students are encouraged to present ideas addressing a problem or need in the community and a first-place winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize. 

“Entrepreneurial development can begin at any age. We don’t have to wait until adulthood to start creating,” said Pamela Reed, managing director of entrepreneurship programs at The Venture Center. “By believing in our students and promoting young visionaries, we promote the future of Arkansas.”

Collaboration between The Venture Center and Economics Arkansas, along with support from the Museum of Discovery and the Innovation Hub, allows for the exciting prospect of supporting Arkansas students from a young age. Students will be chosen to pitch ideas that positively impact our social environment to a local panel of judges including Kelly Bass, CEO of the Museum of Discovery, Ar’ Jillian Gilmer, Arkansas certified teacher and Parent and Community Engagement Professional, and Marie Bruno, Executive Director of Arkansas Economic Acceleration Foundation. Prior to the competition, all participants will attend two pitch preparation sessions facilitated by the Innovation Hub.

“Cultivating entrepreneurship among students is a key part of economic education,” said Kathleen Lawson, executive director of Economics Arkansas. “By equipping students with entrepreneurial knowledge and mindset, we empower them to become creators, problem solvers and leaders who can shape their own future and contribute to the prosperity of their communities. We are proud to partner with The Venture Center and look forward to hearing what the students bring to Pitch ‘N Punch.” 

Pitch ‘N Punch applications are due by July 11, and applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by July 13. There is no cost to participate. To submit an application or learn more about Pitch ‘N Punch and The Venture Center, please visit www.venturecenter.co or the event’s website. 

###

About The Venture Center

The Venture Center is a globally recognized Arkansas-based Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO) that helps entrepreneurs turn their start-ups into viable, high-growth businesses. By leveraging the expertise of a world-class team of mentors, intensive programming, and introductions to the investor community, The Venture Center serves as an engine for economic growth in Arkansas and beyond.  Learn more at www.venturecenter.co. Follow The Venture Center on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter(@VentureCenter), and Instagram.

About Economics Arkansas

Economics Arkansas is a state-wide organization aiming to enrich the lives of students by incorporating personal finance and economic principles into classroom curriculum. Through various partnerships and affiliated councils, Economics Arkansas provides training, materials, and curriculums for PreK-12th grade teachers, meeting the needs of public and independent schools. Visit www.economicsarkansas.org to learn more. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram, or by calling (501) 682-4230.