The Schuylkill Chamber Foundation has unveiled its pioneering initiative, Ignite Schuylkill, a dynamic competition for emerging entrepreneurs aimed at fostering the growth of early-stage businesses.

Starting with a comprehensive 16-week educational program, Ignite Schuylkill will immerse aspiring entrepreneurs in coursework focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. Business owners will join as guest lecturers, sharing invaluable insights and expertise.

Additionally, local business leaders will serve as mentors, guiding participants through the intricacies of launching a successful business venture.

Community investors have provided substantial sponsorship funds to contribute toward the $100,000 in grant funds available to the winners.

“Since its inception in 1952, the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation has aimed to stimulate and influence the process of economic development, improve the quality of life, and raise the standard of living for Schuylkill County communities and its residents,” said Kenneth Huebner, chairman of the Board of Directors of Schuylkill Economic Development Center.

SEDCO is a top program contributor and is the named program sponsor.

Culminating in a Shark Tank-type live competition, the program will provide startup capital to entrepreneurs, offering a crucial financial boost to kickstart their ventures. Official rules and eligibility criteria are available on the program’s website, www.schuylkillchamber.com/igniteschuylkill/.

As a program sponsor, the Schuylkill Chamber Foundation has committed $63,000 to the Ignite Schuylkill program to date. Sponsors include: Program Sponsor, Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation, $15,000; Judge Sponsor, PPL Foundation, $11,000; Metz Properties and Red, White & Blue Autos, $10,000; Speaker Sponsor, D.G. Yuengling & Son, $5,000, and Hydro, $5,000; program contributors, Alvernia University Pottsville CollegeTowne, Penn State Schuylkill, The Evans Network of Companies, The M&T Charitable Foundation, Tobash Financial Solutions and Walmart.

Stay up to date with program updates on the program’s Facebook page, IGNITE Schuylkill, https://www.facebook.com/IgniteSchuylkill

To be involved, contact Samantha Chivinski, executive vice president of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, at 570-622-1942 or schivinski@schuylkillchamber.com