Free event invites entrepreneurs to share ideas, win cash prizes, and connect with resources
By Ray York, Business Counselor for the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Green Bay
Sheboygan County, WI – Accelerate Sheboygan County, powered by the Sheboygan County Innovation Council and the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC), is excited to announce its first 2026 installment of the Startup Idea Night series: “Pitches & Pizza”, taking place on Thursday, May 21st from 5:30-8:00 PM in the Loft at 3 Sheeps Brewing Company.
To attend this free event or pitch you will need to register at link: https://sheboygancountyedc.formstack.com/forms/pitches_and_pizza
Designed to lower the barrier to entrepreneurship, “Pitches & Pizza” invites aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners to share their ideas in a fun, supportive environment. Attendees can enjoy free pizza while hearing a series of fast-paced, one-minute pitches focused on people’s business ideas. The evening is also interactive, giving attendees the opportunity to vote and help select the top three People’s Choice winners.
“This event is about making entrepreneurship approachable,” said Justin Vannieuwenhoven Chair of the Sheboygan County Innovation Council. “You don’t need a business plan or a polished presentation, just an idea and the willingness to share it.”
There will be cash prizes and community recognition. Participants will compete for a total of $2,000 in cash prizes, including: People’s Choice Awards ($1,000 total):
1st Place: $500
2nd Place: $300
3rd Place: $200
Additional awards of up to $1,000 will also be presented by the Sheboygan County Innovation Council.
The event is open to all and no experience required. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or someone with a new idea, “Pitches & Pizza” offers a welcoming space to test concepts, gain feedback, and build connections within Sheboygan County’s entrepreneurial community. No formal pitch deck is required, just bring your idea and be ready to share it in one minute.
Pitches & Pizza (Startup Idea Night)
When: Thursday, May 21, 5:30–8:00 PM
Where: The Loft at 3 Sheeps Brewing Company
Cost: Free to attend and participate (includes pizza while supplies last)
Need to Register: https://sheboygancountyedc.formstack.com/forms/pitches_and_pizza
This event is powered by regional partnerships, and is made possible through collaboration with key local, regional, and statewide partners. We want to thank the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation, the FIRE Consortium, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, all of which are committed to strengthening Wisconsin’s startup ecosystem and supporting early-stage innovation.
