The Town of Hanover has announced the return of the HIPP (Hanover’s Innovative People Program) Entrepreneur Business Pitch Competition, with applications now open to entrepreneurs looking to start, purchase, expand or relocate a business in Hanover.
Following a successful inaugural competition in 2024, the biennial program is once again offering entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop their business plans, strengthen their pitching skills, connect with business support organizations and compete for a prize package designed to accelerate business growth.
“The Entrepreneur Business Pitch Competition gives participants access to valuable business development resources while providing a platform to showcase their ideas and receive feedback from experienced business professionals,” says Economic Development Manager for the Town of Hanover April Marshall. “Our goal is to foster entrepreneurship, support business growth and demonstrate that Hanover is a community where innovative ideas can thrive.”
The 2026 competition will offer a valuable package of prizes and services that may include start-up capital, business coaching, professional consulting services, advertising and marketing packages, digital media support, memberships, and other resources designed to help entrepreneurs successfully launch and grow their businesses.
Three winners were selected in 2024 and collectively received more than $11,000 in prizes and business supports. Winners included Irene Dixon of Kids Play Indoor Play Centre, John Schnurr of The Alley Family Entertainment Centre and Maksim Karasev of Craft CNC.