21 October 2009, Meaford Hall

What is it?

It’s Meaford’s homegrown take-off of CBC’s hit show “Dragon’s Den” and given the brand CBC will be watching with interest

How does it work?

7 contestants pitch their new business ideas to a panel of 5 “Dragons”, in front of a live audience at Meaford Hall, for criticism, compliments and (hopefully) cash

Who is presenting it?

The Meaford & District Chamber of Chamber’s Business Development Committee

Why?

·        To help to stimulate new business ideas for Meaford

·        To encourage the spirit of first time entrepreneurs

·        To have some fun on a quiet Wednesday night in October

Who participates?

·     7 contestants pitch their ideas and compete for a minimum five  thousand dollars ($5,000.00) in prize money

·     5 Dragons who provide the prize money, critique the pitches and choose the winner(s)

·     A terrific host

·     5 corporate sponsors and 2 media sponsors

·     A  packed theatre audience cheering on their favourites

Who are the Dragons?

·        Barb Kay – Meaford & District Chamber of Commerce

·        Todd Campbell – RBA Financial

·        Chris Davies – Muxlow Pharmacy

·        Neil Lamont – Coffin Ridge Vineyard & Winery

·        Waiting for final confirmation from Rotary Club of Meaford

How do participants get involved?

·     All submissions must be submitted to the Meaford & District Chamber of Commerce on or before September 15^th

·     Selected applicants will be interviewed between September 28^th & 30^th

·     Finalists for the event will be announced October 5^th

·     Submissions must include a one-page synopsis outlining their business idea, specifically how it relates to the Meaford Economic Development Strategy

·     Applicant packages will be available at Meaford Chamber office as of August 3^rd

Why should I get involved as a sponsor?

·     Because you want to be involved in the future of Meaford

·     Because you want to see your business name (logo) in bold letters on stage

How can I get involved?

·     Be a Sponsor: There are 5 sponsorships available for $250 each, you’ll be celebrated and your brand will be all over the show

Who wins?

·     Meaford’s business community: great ideas foster more new ideas

·     The individual winner at the show: perhaps we’ll have another new enterprise in Meaford with new employees

·     The Dragons: they gain recognition as community leaders & investors

·     The sponsors: they have direct association with a winning community project

·     The Municipality of Meaford: “Dragon’s Den” will promote the new Municipal Economic Strategy