Key4Women Announces Business Pitch Contest for Women-Owned Businesses

In order to host a business pitch contest, Key4Women program of KeyBank, MESO, and the Portland Thorns FC have made an alliance. This contest is dedicated to women-owned businesses that are located in Oregon and SW Washington’s specific counties.

In this pitch, start-up opportunities along with existing businesses shall be offered in addition to cash awards totaling $50,000 while the grand prize winner will get $20,000. In the year 2023, more than 210 women-owned businesses have applied for the contest. Melody Brown, L&M Hair Company who was the 2023 Pitch Contest winner, shall serve as a judge for 2024 contest.

President of Business Operations for the Portland Thorns FC, Alexis Lee said, “It is exciting to host and support this pitch contest again in collaboration with KeyBank’s Key4Women program and MESO. The Thorns have always been passionate about making a difference in our community and providing opportunities and resources to women. This event will make a meaningful impact for a handful of woman-owned small businesses in our region.”

KeyBank Oregon and SW Washington Market President, Josh Lyons added, “KeyBank is thrilled to bring back the Key4Women Pitch Contest to Oregon and SW Washington. We couldn’t be prouder to partner with MESO and the Thorns again as we answer two critical struggles faced by women-owned businesses, mentorship and capital.”

The deadline for the application is July 15, 2024 till 11:59 pm PST. MESO shall announce the 10 finalists by early August, this year. On October 10, a live event shall take place at Portland ‘s Providence Park. It will start from 10:00 am and end at 3 pm PST where a 4-min pitch should be presented by the finalists along with field questions for 6 minutes to a panel of judges. The winners of the contest will be announced on the same day.