Public invited to select HATCH winner

By Patrick Lynn

HATCH is returning to Central Wisconsin in November.

The entrepreneurial program provides a chance for selected go-getters to pitch their business ideas before a live audience on Nov. 13.

The event will be held at John & Patty Noel’s Car Barn, 1995 River Bend in Plover, from 6-8:30 p.m.

HATCH events in three regions across the state are being spearheaded by BrightStar Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation through an entrepreneurship support grant. Locally, the effort is being led by the Portage County Business Council.

“Our communities are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and the support the last two years made it an easy decision for HATCH to come back,” said Todd Kuckkahn, Executive Director at Portage County Business Council. “We have a unique and fun location and are excited for our jurors to select the $5,000 grand prize winner.”

Second place will receive $2,500, Kuckkahn said, with a $1,000 prize for third place, and $500 cash award for the “People’s Choice.”

Attendees are also fond of the HATCH event afterparties, Kuckkahn said, which typically offer local music, and food and beverage vendors, in a unique location where attendees can network.

This year’s afterparty location will be announced at the HATCH event, Kuckkahn said.

There is no cost to attend the event, but registration is requested to ensure enough food and beverage is available.

For questions about HATCH, contact Fred Raasch at [email protected] or for Kayla Rombalski at [email protected].