ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Aberdeen Development Corporation (ADC), teaming up with the Northern Innovation and Startup Center, has released the dates for the much-anticipated 2025 Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition. Entrepreneurs from across the region will have the chance to compete for a $10,000 cash prize, generously sponsored by the ADC.

The competition will unfold over the following important dates:

April 30: Entry deadline
June 2: Announcement of finalists
June 30: Finalist presentation event

This competition is open to start-ups and innovative projects that are less than 5 years old with less than $500,000 in cumulative revenue. Individuals who have previously submitted an entry to the competition in past years are eligible to enter again. 

On June 30, the finalist presentation event will be held at Engels Event Company. The evening promises engaging opportunities for networking and compelling business pitches. The event schedule is as follows:

4:00-5:00 p.m.: Startup Center Community Champions Networking event
5:00-6:30 p.m.: Opening remarks and finalist pitches
6:30-7:00 p.m.: Judges deliberate while attendees continue networking

“This contest celebrates Aberdeen’s rich entrepreneurial history and fuels the spirit of innovation that drives our community forward,” said Tim Hanigan, CEO of the Aberdeen Development Corporation. “By partnering with the Northern Innovation and Startup Center, led by Bea Smith, the ADC proudly supports this outstanding initiative. After the incredible success of last year’s debut event, we’re thrilled to host the competition again, providing a platform that nurtures new ideas and sparks business growth in Aberdeen.”

Bea Smith, director of the Northern Innovation and Startup Center, shared her excitement: “The creativity and drive we saw from participants last year were truly inspiring. We’re eager to see what this year’s finalists bring to the table and to continue supporting the local talent that makes Aberdeen special.”

The Aberdeen Business Pitch Competition is more than just a contest—it’s a celebration of ideas, innovation, and community. Finalists will showcase their entrepreneurial visions before community leaders, industry experts, and potential investors, all working together to strengthen Aberdeen’s entrepreneurial landscape.

For more information and to apply, visit adcsd.com/business-pitch-competition.