SEYMOUR — Applications are officially open for Jackson County entrepreneurs and innovators looking to turn their business ideas into reality through the third annual SPARK Tank Pitch Competition.
Hosted by SPARK Jackson County—an initiative of the Jackson County Chamber Foundation—the event offers residents a chance to compete for up to $15,000 in startup funding.
The competition is open to any Jackson County resident of high school age or older who has an original concept for a new business. Designed to spur local innovation, nurture entrepreneurship, and launch the county’s next wave of small businesses, the program provides participants with a platform to showcase their ideas.
Key Details & Competition Timeline
- Application Deadline: Monday, Aug. 31, 2026
- Live Pitch Event: Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
- Eligibility: Jackson County residents, high school age and older
- Top Prize Pool: Up to $15,000 in cash awards
Selected finalists will move on to the live pitch event in October, where they will present their business models before a live audience and a panel of expert judges.
Expanding the Local Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The pitch competition is part of a broader push by SPARK Jackson County to make the region a premier hub for rural entrepreneurship. In addition to programming like SPARK Tank, the organization is currently developing SparkShop, a modern coworking space housed in a revitalized former tire shop in downtown Seymour. The facility will feature open desks, private offices, meeting rooms, and hosting space for local events.
SPARK Jackson County also collaborates with local funding networks, including a $300,000 local seed fund created in partnership with the Flywheel Fund, to provide capital and mentorship to local startups.
How to Apply
Aspiring business owners can learn more about the competition rules and submit an online application before the Aug. 31 deadline by visiting SPARKJacksonCounty.com. Members of the public are also invited to attend the live October event to support local innovators.
