Georgia Southern University, Georgia Tech Savannah's Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), and the Creative Coast are holding the fifth annual FastPitch Competition at the Savannah Morning News Auditorium March 28.
      This is a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs to pitch their idea to a panel of judges. The competition is designed for promising students, academics, and local entrepreneurs to share their ideas in front of established entrepreneurs and local businesses to develop and grow the local economy.
      "An entrepreneur's dream can come true in three minutes," said, FastPitch organizer and director of Georgia Southern's Center for Entrepreneurial Learning and Leadership, Luke Pittaway. "Our past participants have really benefited from this opportunity, specially the coaching section which prepares them for the future."
      This year the competition is introducing a panel of three judges, which consists of Jim Goodlett, Rad Harrell and Jennifer Bonnett. I have covered this competition before, and it is very, very helpful. The feedback is tremendous, and you can sense that the judges really want to help.
      The competition involves submitting a first stage application; qualified participants will then submit a full executive summary of their pitch.
      Necessary training and coaching for the competition will be provided, and contestants will make a three minute presentation in front of a judge's panel and prospective investors of their innovative venture idea on the day of the competition.
      Prizes in form of money and services will be awarded to the winning pitches. The outright winner will win $6,000.
      To learn more about the competition visit the following website - www.fastpitchcompetition.com. For those trying to start a new venture or who have a new idea in an existing venture for which support is needed, then this competition is for you. You have to apply by February 18.
      Go for it! What have you got to lose.
      So, until next Tuesday, I bid you au revoir.
      Got a scoop for Jan? Call her at (912) 489-9463 or email her at jmoore@statesboroherald.com