MacLauchlan Entrepreneurship Program’s Panther Pitch 2024 is set to launch January 24
UPEI students are invited to the launch of the MacLauchlan Entrepreneurship Program’s “Panther Pitch 2024” on January 24 from 6:00–9:00 pm in Schurman Market Square, Don and Marion McDougall Hall.
The MacLauchlan Panther Pitch at UPEI is supported by the UPEI Experiential Education department and is part of the Harry W. MacLauchlan Entrepreneurship Program, which is dedicated to the development of students who have an entrepreneurial outlook and will potentially create and lead new business ventures on Prince Edward Island.
During the launch, students will have the opportunity to connect with past event participants and the MacLauchlan family, to expand professional networks, and to learn more about the MacLauchlan Panther Pitch competition. Guest speakers include UPEI President Emeritus Wade MacLauchlan as well as event alumni Nooshin Abedi, Jerry Oriade, and Zack Montreuil.
“Empowering our students is at the core of the MacLauchlan Panther Pitch, offering a unique platform for their entrepreneurial dreams to thrive,” said Amy Andrews, manager of entrepreneurship at UPEI. “As our students dive into this transformative experience, they not only gain invaluable educational insights from industry professionals and forge meaningful connections but also discover a pathway to overcome funding obstacles and kick-start their ventures. We are very excited to see what business ideas are presented this year!”
Harry W. MacLauchlan (1926–2002) combined his entrepreneurial initiative, work ethic, business judgment, and people skills, with a deep commitment to his family, community, and province. The MacLauchlan family has endowed the MacLauchlan Panther Pitch to help advance and encourage entrepreneurial students at UPEI to build innovative ventures that will grow and benefit Island communities.
Participating student teams will be matched with mentor support and ultimately be given the opportunity to compete for cash awards and a chance to pitch in front of a live audience. Teams that are chosen to pitch in the final event will earn significant public exposure for their start-up idea and will compete for a portion of prize money to be used to support their start-up venture. This year, a total of $62,000 in prize money will be awarded to students.
“The MacLauchlan family’s unwavering support has made this event possible, creating a remarkable opportunity for our students to explore, innovate, and propel their ideas forward. We’re immensely grateful for their commitment, which paves the way for a future where student aspirations take centre stage, unhindered by financial barriers. The MacLauchlan Panther Pitch is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of our students’ resilience, creativity, and the boundless possibilities that await them in the world of entrepreneurship,” said Andrews.
For more information about competition rules, application process, and contact information, please visit https://www.upei.ca/pantherpitch
