The Town of Hanover is excited to announce the return of the HIPP (Hanover's Innovative People Program) Entrepreneur Business Pitch Competition, with applications now open to entrepreneurs looking to start, purchase, expand, or relocate a business in Hanover.
Following a successful inaugural competition in 2024, the biennial program is once again offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop their business plans, strengthen their pitching skills, connect with business support organizations, and compete for a prize package designed to accelerate business growth.
The 2024 competition attracted eight entrepreneurs who completed business training, developed comprehensive business plans, and delivered pitches to a panel of judges. Three winners were selected and collectively received more than $11,000 in prizes and business supports. Winners included Irene Dixon of Kids Play Indoor Play Centre, John Schnurr of The Alley Family Entertainment Centre, and Maksim Karasev of Craft CNC.
Through the support of community partners and sponsors, the 2026 competition will offer a valuable package of prizes and services that may include start-up capital, business coaching, professional consulting services, advertising and marketing packages, digital media support, memberships, and other resources designed to help entrepreneurs successfully launch and grow their businesses. Similar prize packages were awarded during the inaugural competition, providing tangible support that helped winners advance their business ventures.
"The Entrepreneur Business Pitch Competition gives participants access to valuable business development resources while providing a platform to showcase their ideas and receive feedback from experienced business professionals," said April Marshall, Economic Development Manager for the Town of Hanover. "Our goal is to foster entrepreneurship, support business growth, and demonstrate that Hanover is a community where innovative ideas can thrive."
The competition is open to entrepreneurs who plan to establish, purchase, expand, or relocate a business within the Town of Hanover. Applicants will have the opportunity to participate in business training and mentorship supports before advancing to the final pitch event.
Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Complete program details, eligibility requirements, and application forms are available at hippentrepreneur.ca and hanover.ca/businesspitchcompetition.
The Town of Hanover extends its appreciation to the sponsors and community partners whose continued support helps strengthen entrepreneurship, investment, and economic development opportunities throughout the community.