Englewood’s entrepreneurs began running a business plan competition similar to Shark Tank

CHICAGO (WLS) — Entrepreneurs in Englewood are getting a much needed boost in the quality of life business competition.

In an event similar to the ABC show Shark Tank, four finalists will take the stage at Kennedy King College on Saturday.

They will present their current work or plan as they cast their vote on the panel of judges.

“You get a coaching mentor, you get pitching support and then you get support to create a business plan,” said Cecil De Mello, executive director of TeamWork Inglewood.

The grounds have seen a variety of businesses, including an investment bank, a luggage service, a boutique and a catering company.

All four finalists are walking away with at least a $10,000 prize, but Stephanie Harrison is walking away with $25,000 because the judges were so impressed with her plan to expand the preschool at 65th and Halstead.

“We definitely need that,” said Stephanie Harrison, director of Children’s Learn and Play Daycare. “We’ve been looking for it for a long time and thank you for coming into our community and helping us.”

The money is a positive but these entrepreneurs go with connections in the community and provide resources along the way to grow their business. This goes a long way when entrepreneurs deal with the day-to-day problems of running a small business.

“I think they’re really helpful with recognition, just letting the community know that local entrepreneurs and businesses are viable and productive in the community and ready to do business with the community,” said Sandy Mitchell of Sangstein’s Kitchen.

Click here to register for this free event.