Applications for the 2025 Mandan Business Pitch Challenge Are Open

The Mandan Business Pitch Challenge is returning in 2025, and applications are officially open. Entrepreneurs can apply to pitch their business ideas to a panel of local judges for a chance to gain valuable business development experiences and a forgivable loan as a prize. Applications will close on August 22, and presenters will pitch their business on October 15th.

“This is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to launch their business or for existing companies who want to expand,” says Noah Vroman, Business Development Coordinator at the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber Economic Development Corporation (EDC). “Competing in the challenge is valuable, but so are the learning and development aspects that come with it.”

Learn more about the Mandan Business Pitch Challenge to see if your organization is a good fit to participate. Discover why this competition benefits the long-run economies of Bismarck and Mandan. 

Participants Receive Guidance and Resources from the SBDC

The Business Pitch Challenge is run by the City of Mandan and supported by the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC and the North Dakota Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The EDC helps plan the event, while the SBDC offers resources to participants to help them grow their businesses.

If you are an entrepreneur or business owner interested in participating, you will submit an application to the City of Mandan Communications Department and then meet with the SBDC to review your business plan and opportunities for growth. The SBDC will offer insights into how your organization can improve and help you present a stronger plan to the judges.

Some entrepreneurs might need help developing financial plans, while others need assistance with marketing efforts or zoning laws. Every company is unique 

Participants are required to meet with the SBDC at least once, but many work with the organization throughout the summer until they attend the Mandan Business Pitch Challenge. The SBDC is an excellent way to discover resources and services (at both a regional and state level) designed to help business owners. 

Businesses Have 10 Minutes to Impress Local Judges

Participants in the Mandan Business Pitch Challenge will work on their plans and presentations throughout the summer and present them to a panel of judges (local business leaders and community members) on October 15, 2025. The judges have a rubric to score each presentation based on content in the plan, creativity, innovation, target market identification, market fit, scalability, strength of leadership team, use of prizes and support services, feasibility, and public benefits to the region.

“This is a great event for anyone who wants to take the next step in their business,” says Vroman. “Regardless of where they are in the process, they can evolve and grow in the Mandan area.”

Not everyone can win, but each business can learn new skills and build stronger business plans along the way. In addition to tapping into SBDC resources, entrepreneurs can network with other companies in the area and grow awareness of their business in the community. This can lead to more customers and connections that spur growth.

“The community is excited for these new businesses,” says Vroman. “And that excitement transfers into people providing support and buying from these startups.”

The Mandan Business Pitch Challenge Strengthens the Local Economy

This is an exciting program in the Bismarck-Mandan region because it strengthens multiple small businesses and startups, increasing their chances of success. The goal is for entrepreneurs and business owners to develop new skills and knowledge to run healthier companies. This supports the small business culture of the region while diversifying the economy.

“Growing businesses and investing in entrepreneurship keep the local side of the city growing,” says Vroman. “Having those main street shops is important.”

Local business development isn’t just an economic issue, it’s a quality of life one. Residents can enjoy amenities and products from the amazing small businesses that choose to operate in Bismarck-Mandan.

Vroman says that entrepreneurs who are still developing their ideas should feel safe starting their businesses in Mandan. “It’s a huge jump, but if you have a plan, you’re 90% of the way there,” he says. “We have a supportive community and ample resources. There’s fertile ground in Bismarck-Mandan to grow your business.” 

Register for the Mandan Business Pitch Challenge Today

It’s never too early to prepare your application for the Mandan Business Pitch Challenge and submit it to the City. If you are on the fence about participating, take the leap and sign up. You might be surprised by what you learn and the connections you make along the way. You can also explore other business resources by the Chamber EDC that help Mandan companies thrive.