A Different Kind of Small Business Pitch Event presented by Commonplace Coworking

TC SOUP is a brand new, grassroots small business pitch event which celebrates community support and abundance over scarcity.

Our event is modeled after the very successful Detroit SOUPs. It’s a public dinner, it’s a platform for connection, a democratic experiment in micro-funding, an opportunity to support entrepreneurs and changemakers in Traverse City.

The Format

You will be greeted by live music as you enter The Alluvion and find your way to a communal table. Then, four very early-stage small businesses will present for four minutes apiece, each also taking four minutes to answer audience questions.

We will then break for a delicious meal prepared by a local emerging chef as the music continues. Over dinner, you will discuss with your table-mates the merits of the four presentations. Everyone will cast their vote, and the winner will be announced, receiving seed funding to support their venture and vision!

This is an intimate event, with only 50 seats available.

"Small is good, small is all. There is a conversation in this room that only these people at this moment can have. Find it."

-adriane maree brown

Agenda:

• 5-5:30 PM - Doors open + Live music + Meet the presenters

  Each presenter will have a booth set up with examples of theirs good and services. Get a chance to meet them and ask questions before the event kicks off. Plus, live music!!

• 5:30-6:30 PM - Listen to the pitches!

  After some short intro remarks, listen to four amazing very early stage small businesses share their story and explain what they need.

• 6:30-7 PM - Eat up, buttercup!

  Enjoy delicious food while discussing with your table-mates which presenter you think did best.

• 7-7:30 PM - Vote + award the $$$$

  All audience members will vote for their favorite presenter and that small biz will be awarded the ticket prize money.

Frequently asked questions:

• How can I sign up to pitch?

  We accept presenter applications on a rolling basis: forms.gle/2XsxjXtd1ANhTge16

  Email nick@commonplacework.org w/ questions!

• How do you decide you gets to pitch?

  On Jan 19, Apr 19, Jul 19, Oct 18, a volunteer panel made of past participants will review submissions and determine who'll pitch at the next event.