Supporting Local Entrepreneurs at MiPitch 2026 ep 208

Driving Regional Innovation: Inside MiPitch 2026 with Dana Naff

Small business development and entrepreneurial passion are at the heart of local economic growth. On a recent episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host and content creator  Duane Weed sat down with Dana Naff, Executive Director of the Montcalm Economic Alliance, to discuss the history, growth, and impact of MiPitch 2026.

Discover Montcalm Podcast, host

What is MiPitch 2026?

Originally created in 2020 by Ryan Wilson, Executive Director of the Ionia County Economic Alliance, MiPitch is a joint entrepreneurial pitch competition designed specifically for for-profit small businesses located in Montcalm and Ionia counties. The name itself reflects this regional partnership, where the “MI” stands directly for Montcalm and Ionia.

Over its six-year history, the event has expanded through strong community support, bringing together regional chambers—including the Tri-County Chamber representing Greenville, Belding, Portland, and Ionia—alongside key community banking sponsors like Commercial Bank, Isabella Bank, and Mercantile Bank.

Hands-On SBDC Business Coaching

Unlike traditional competitions where participants simply present an idea and leave, MiPitch prioritizes long-term entrepreneurial development. Every applicant receives direct guidance from Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) mentor Marie Elliott. Through this personalized coaching, business owners refine their business models, perfect their financial strategies, and gain public speaking confidence.

A Transformational $10,000 Grand Prize

Through growing corporate sponsorship, MiPitch 2026 will award a transformational $10,000 top cash prize to help the winning entrepreneur expand operations, invest in equipment, or launch new service lines. Secondary cash prizes and community support awards are also presented.

Event Details & Crowd Participation

Members of the public are invited to attend, network, and participate in crowd voting to support local business owners.

• Date: September 17th 2026

• Location: Candlestone Inn, Belding, Michigan

• Schedule:

  • 4:00 PM: Networking & Cocktail Hour

  • 5:30 PM: Live Pitch Competition & Judging

To learn more about the event or view competitor profiles, search MiPitch 2026 on Facebook.

To feature your business, non-profit, or community initiative on Chatting Local or the Discover Montcalm Podcast, contact Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or visit dwvideo.com.

To feature your business, non-profit, or local story on the Discover Montcalm Podcast or Chatting Local, contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or visit dwvideo.com or chattinglocal.com.

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