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The Women's Business Center (WBC) at Cornerstone Alliance will join Holt Bosse to host a Southwest Michigan business pitch competition, Small Fish, Big Pitch, on September 29, 2021.

BENTON HARBOR, Mich., (July 1, 2021) – The Women's Business Center (WBC) at Cornerstone Alliance will join Holt Bosse to host a Southwest Michigan business pitch competition, Small Fish, Big Pitch, on September 29, 2021.

Small business owners will compete before local celebrity judges for the opportunity to receive in-kind marketing services from Holt Bosse to be used within two years. Services include but are not limited to website creation, digital marketing and advertising, photography, and more. The application process is open as of today, July 1, 2021 and will close on August 1, 2021.

Three businesses will be awarded one of the following packages to use toward its individual marketing needs:

Big Fish Award - $50,000
Small Fish Award - $30,000
People's Choice Award - $20,000

Stephanie Scott-Sims, Vice President of Finance and Entrepreneurship at Cornerstone Alliance noted the value of this competition. "Marketing is one of the most important aspects of a business. A successful marketing campaign requires an in-depth understanding of the marketplace, customers, and the various marketing channels that exist today. Some entrepreneurs may not have the resources to hire a company like Holt Bosse as a consultant, which makes this an opportunity businesses will not want to miss."

The WBC focuses on entrepreneurs who face barriers in accessing traditional financing or resources. The WBC provides tools, counseling, and assistance that enhances economic well-being of its clients, particularly women, people of color, veterans, and low-income individuals. As such, the WBC promotes and assists in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency opportunities.

The WBC will provide one-on-one support for applicants who request assistance with the application process. Applications are available on the WBC website and printed forms can be picked up at Cornerstone Alliance.

Holt Bosse is a full service marketing agency with over 100 years of combined marketing experience. The three winners of Small Fish, Big Pitch will not receive a cash prize, but can add Holt Bosse's marketing services to their resources for two years. Dave Holt, co-president of Holt Bosse said, "the downside is that we can only choose three of them."

"Our clients are scattered throughout the Midwest, but our company roots are in Southwest Michigan," said Patrick Bosse, Holt Bosse co-president. "We're looking forward to meeting local business owners, hearing their plans for moving their businesses forward and helping to make that a reality while making a difference in our community."

Small Fish, Big Pitch is open to existing small businesses in Berrien, Cass and Van Buren Counties. Those pre-selected will earn the chance to pitch their businesses on September 29, 2021. The application process for this event is open today, July 1, 2021 and will close on August 1, 2021.