Starke County EDC looking for ‘Starke Tank’ participants

The Starke County Economic Development Foundation is seeking small business owners to participate in its fourth annual Starke Tank Countywide Business Pitch Competition.

The event is open to entrepreneurs looking to grow their operation in the county, and contestants will receive free coaching from the Indiana Small Business Development Center as they compete for prize money.

The competition can include small businesses that have been open for three years or less, new businesses that are not yet operational, and established businesses that have changed ownership within the last three years.

Additionally, businesses that have been in operation for more than three years that are developing growth through a new product, service line, expansion, or implementation of a new strategic plan are also eligible.

Last year, Irelynd Alexis Boutique, a clothing retailer in downtown Knox won the $12,000 first prize, with the goal of adding more clothing options for patrons. Second place went to Dalton Tunis, owner of Bone Boss Game Calls, a turkey and deer call business in North Judson.

This year’s Starke Tank will take place August 30 at Knox Community High School. You can learn more about the pitch competition, including how to apply, by clicking here.