WESTMINSTER, Md. — MidAtlantic Farm Credit, in partnership with the Rural Maryland Council, has announced the creation of AgPitch17, a competition seeking those who have innovative ideas to enhance the agricultural industry. The deadline for applications is Nov. 1.
“The agricultural industry is evolving in ways many people never saw coming,” said Andrew Rose, marketing manager with MidAtlantic Farm Credit, and one of the founding members of AgPitch17. “We’re excited about the direction the industry is headed, both at the local and national level. AgPitch17 gives those who are making strides in our community a platform to share their ideas on how we can make sure agriculture continues to not only thrive, but expand.”
After Nov. 1, the applications will be reviewed and the five applicants with the most innovative concepts will be asked to present their idea to a panel of judges at the Rural Maryland Council’s Conference, taking place Dec. 1 in Annapolis, Md. Each applicant will have three to five minutes to pitch their idea, and the live audience and judges will vote for the winner.
The applicant who receives the most votes will win a grand prize of $7,500 to help them launch their business, as well as risk management services (provided by North Central Insurance Agency), office space (provided by the Maryland Business Incubator Association and F3 Tech Accelerator Program), and admission into Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr’s Resources, Access, and Mentoring Program. All finalists will receive cash prizes.
“We encourage everyone who has an idea for a new agricultural venture to apply,” said Rose. “The limit in this industry is virtually nonexistent, and we’re thrilled to see to many people ahead of the curve.”
The deadline for applications is Nov. 1, and the top five applicants will be notified by Nov. 10. For more information and to apply, please visit mafc.com/agpitch.
— MidAtlantic Farm Credit