KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow)  The PitchFork Challenge is back this year with a renewed mission to support local entrepreneurs across the region. Organizers at the Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship say the competition is “all about bringing people together, creating a relaxed space for networking, and showcasing exciting ideas and businesses.”

Launched in 2018, the challenge has seen winners such as Butcher Pete’s Mobile Meat, TotumVos, Frisky Cow Gelato, Jack’s Crackers, Bending Branch Farm, and Broken Boat Farm. Kelly McCutcheon, owner of Broken Boat Farm, reflected on the impact the event had on her business: “[The prize] allowed me to buy a larger livestock trailer. With the increased efficiency I was able to switch from 1099 to W-2 pay with limited benefits. My business would not be where it is today if I had not participated in the PitchFork Challenge.”

After pausing for a year, the competition is returning with changes. “We’re calling all entrepreneurs and small business owners in the region to step forward and apply for this exciting opportunity to pitch, connect, and grow,” said Sara Powell, program director at the Hannah Grimes Center.

Eligible businesses must be located in a New Hampshire county, or in Windham, Bennington, or Windsor counties in Vermont, or Franklin County in Massachusetts. They also need to be based in towns with populations of 30,000 or fewer, have some revenue, and earn no more than $150,000 in annual sales.

This year’s edition marks a significant shift: the competition will stand on its own, no longer tied to the Radically Rural Summit where it has traditionally held its final round. Organizers say this change reflects a renewed commitment to supporting entrepreneurs across the Monadnock Region and neighboring rural areas in Vermont and Massachusetts.

Applications are open until May 5. Entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.

The challenge kicks off May 13 with an orientation session, followed by two rounds of pitch coaching before semi-finalists face judges in a closed session June 13. The public will get a chance to see the finalists compete at the culminating event on June 18. There’s a $50 fee to participate, but scholarships are available.