BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) — An entrepreneur took home $5,000 Saturday, thanks to a contest sponsored by Believe in Bristol.
Every year, Believe in Bristol and the Downtown Development Authority hold a contest that allows one lucky entrepreneur to start or expand a business in downtown Bristol.
Saturday morning, 14 contestants pitched their idea to a panel of judges.
Before the vote, All of the contestants participate in nine weeks of professional facilitated Entrepreneur Training.
Facilitator of the training program, Val Lyle said this is a great way to bring new business to the area.
“I think there is a gap between people who may not have gone through college, and may not have an MBA or an accounting degree, but they have a dream,” she said. “That is where we step in to help.”
Great Oak Brewing Company took home the $5,000 prize. The runner up was Misty Mountain Designs.
The judges chose the winner based on the feasibility of their plan, and how close they are to starting a business.
The contest is made possible by Wells Fargo of Bristol, Virginia.
