Elevating Outdoor Recreation Business Contest

The Oil Region Alliance will kick off the Elevating Outdoor Recreation Business Contest with an informational event Tuesday, July 22, at 6:30 p.m. at the Rhoades Center on the Oil Region Venango Campus in Oil City.

The event will include an overview of the rules, deadlines, frequently asked questions, tips for writing a concept paper and business plan, light refreshments and some socializing.

“This is a great opportunity for prospective participants to get details about the contest and also to network with other outdoor recreation enthusiasts and entrepreneurs,” said Kim Harris, ORA Outdoor Recreation Manager.

The contest is open to new businesses as well as expansions of existing businesses and services based in Venango County. Business owners do not have to be Venango County residents. Eligible businesses include outdoor recreation services such as outfitters, but also production businesses such as the manufacturing of fishing rods or bicycles.

Five semifinalists will be chosen by the judges based on submitted concept papers. Presentations of business plans will be used to choose the winners, to be announced in early December. The first place prize is $10,000 and a second place prize of $5,000 will also be awarded.

The ORA is administering the contest with funding support from Venango County.

Attendance at the kickoff is not mandatory, but is encouraged.

RSVPs are not required, but appreciated and can be sent to jgorman@oilregion.org or 814-677-3152.