Spark 2026 - October 8

What is SPARK?

Join us on Thursday, October 8, 2026, for the SPARK Small Business Pitch Contest—an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their business, gain valuable feedback, connect with local business leaders, and compete for resources that can help take their business to the next level. Whether you're launching a new startup or growing an existing small business, SPARK is designed to help entrepreneurs turn great ideas into lasting success. Think of it as a community-focused version of Shark Tank—supportive, encouraging, and focused on helping local businesses thrive.

Each participant will have 7 minutes to present their business to a panel of experienced business professionals. Your presentation should highlight:
•    What your business does
•    The problem you solve
•    Your vision for future growth
•    How you would use the prizes to strengthen your business

Before the competition, every participant will be paired with a YCDC staff member or business mentor to help refine their business model, strengthen their presentation, and build confidence before stepping on stage. Whether this is your first pitch or your fiftieth, we're here to help you succeed.

Two winners will be selected:

One Startup (an idea- or prototype-stage venture with little to no operating history)
One Small Business (a business that is actively operating, typically with under 50 employees, local or regional in scope, and independently owned)

Prizes include:

A $3,000 cash award
A YCDC membership
A marketing package valued at $1,000 donated by Nebraska Rural Radio Network - York office.

Participation is completely free, and a short, simple slideshow is encouraged—but not required. Judges are looking for clarity of purpose, business potential, and strategic use of the award.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
Location: TBD
Application Deadline: September 4, 2026
Cost: FREE to participate
If you're ready to pitch your passion, plan your progress, and power your presence—SPARK is your stage.

Email registration form or questions to Grace Staehr at gstaehr@yorkdevco.com

REGISTRATION FORM RULES AND CRITERIA

¿Hablas español?

¡No te preocupes!

Queremos que todos los emprendedores tengan la oportunidad de participar.

✔ Puedes completar la solicitud en español.

✔ Tendremos al menos un juez que habla español.

✔ Si necesitas ayuda durante el proceso de inscripción, nuestro equipo también puede apoyarte.

¡Anímate a participar! Tu idea merece ser escuchada.

¿Tiene preguntas o está listo para inscribirse? Envíe su formulario de inscripción o cualquier consulta a Grace Staehr al correo electrónico gstaehr@yorkdevco.com.