UPDATE: The highly anticipated West Slope Startup Week Pitch Competition kicks off today from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Durango Arts Center! Two local entrepreneurs from Durango, Mike Milakovic and Matthew Glick, are set to showcase their innovative business ideas against four other finalists from the region.
Milakovic, who moved to Durango just over a year ago, will pitch his clean-ingredient veggie snack company, Mighty Mike’s Foods. Meanwhile, Glick, a lifelong Durango resident, will present MTN FX, a Software as a Service operations management platform tailored for the skiing industry. Both participants are vying for crucial funding and connections that could propel their ventures forward.
This year’s competition promises significant stakes, with finalists competing for a variety of funding opportunities, including interest-free crowdsourced loans and mentorship services. Last year, startups secured an impressive $380,000 in investments, highlighting the critical role this event plays in supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering innovation.
Milakovic expressed his excitement about the event, emphasizing the invaluable support from the Durango community. “The support here has been amazing,” he stated, as he gears up for his pitch. Glick echoed similar sentiments, sharing that while financial support is welcome, his primary goal is to forge strategic partnerships. “Meeting someone passionate about skiing could lead to new customers or collaborations,” he explained.
The competition has garnered attention from a panel of nine judges, including industry experts and representatives from venture funds. Notable judge Erica Hines, founder and CEO of InnerFrame, remarked on the importance of events like this in fostering connections and growth in rural Colorado. “There’s such great energy around Startup Colorado,” Hines noted.
As the clock ticks down to the event, both Milakovic and Glick are feeling the pressure but remain optimistic. “Everybody’s nervous… but whoever wins will deserve it,” Milakovic said, extending good wishes to all competitors.
The local business scene is buzzing with anticipation as these emerging entrepreneurs aim to make their mark. Stay tuned for updates on the outcomes of the competition and the future ventures of these passionate founders.