Published: Apr 2, 2025
11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition to Showcase Marion County’s Brightest Young Entrepreneurs
Ocala, FL – The 11th Annual Youth Business Plan Competition is set to highlight Marion County’s brightest high school entrepreneurs. On Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM, the Power Plant Business Incubator will host the event, providing a platform for local students to pitch their business ideas to a panel of local business leaders and potential investors.
Organized by the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership (CEP), this event empowers high school students to showcase their innovative ideas, offering them real-world experience in business development and entrepreneurship. Heather Shubirg, Chief Growth Officer at Ocala Metro CEP, emphasizes, "This competition isn’t just about winning prizes; it’s about creating opportunities for students to dream big and develop realworld skills."
In addition to the competition, students will have the chance to network with mentors and receive feedback from business professionals. Sponsors, including Raney’s, Campus USA Credit Union, and Colen Built Development, play a crucial role in helping students achieve their entrepreneurial goals.
We are excited to announce that this year’s finalists include students from North Marion High School, Vanguard High School, Ocali Charter High School, West Port High School, and Belleview High School. These students have demonstrated incredible innovation, determination, and vision in their business plans.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Power Plant Business Incubator, 405 SE Osceola Avenue, Ocala, FL 34471
Community members are invited to attend and support these young entrepreneurs. The event is free and open to the public. To register, please visit OcalaCEP.com/YouthBusinessPlanCompetition. For more information about this event, contact Freddie@OcalaCEP.com.