Wheeling Heritage’s Next ‘Show of Hands’ Slated for May 15

Wheeling Heritage invites aspiring entrepreneurs and community members to participate in the second Show of Hands event of the 2024 season. This event offers an opportunity to turn business ideas into reality with financial support raised through event sponsorships and donations collected during the event. Scheduled for May 15 at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling, Show of Hands promises to be an evening celebrating local entrepreneurship.

Show of Hands, sponsored by Orrick, is a unique crowd-funding initiative designed to empower local entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses. Whether launching a new business, expanding an existing one, or undertaking a project to enrich the Wheeling community, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by April 15 at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands/.

“As we continue to celebrate 10 years of Show of Hands, it’s amazing to look back at the businesses that have been positively impacted by this program – and it’s all because the community continues to show up to show their support,” said Alex Panas, director of heritage programming at Wheeling Heritage. “This program is so special because it doesn’t just provide funding for businesses, it allows people living in our community to build connections with the people and places that make Wheeling special. We’re so proud of what this program has done and look forward to seeing how it continues to shape our community in the years to come.”

Here’s how Show of Hands works:

Submit Your Proposal: Applications are due by April 15. A committee will review submissions and select four finalists to advance to the presentation round.

Present Your Idea: Four finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their projects to the community on May 15. Each presenter will have four minutes to make their case, followed by a brief Q&A session.

Vote for Your Favorite: Attendees pay a $5 donation at the door, which contributes to the winner’s prize pool. After hearing all presentations, attendees vote for their preferred project.

Celebrate Success: The project with the most votes receives prize money – typically around $4,500 – provided by event sponsors and donations collected at the door.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Wheeling’s entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for an inspiring evening of innovation and collaboration at Show of Hands on May 15.

For more information and to apply, visit wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands/.