Hedland's Big Pitch offers $20,000 to boost budding entrepreneurs
Launched on June 14 at the Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHCCI) Business Excellence Awards, Hedland's Big Pitch aims to identify and support individuals with ideas that could enhance the economy or liveability of the region.
Developed by PHCCI in partnership with BHP, the competition invites residents to submit business concepts that address community needs or opportunities for economic growth.
Ten shortlisted applicants will be selected to participate in a series of workshops on business planning and public speaking before presenting their pitches to a judging panel in September.
Three finalists will go on to present their ideas at the Hedland Economic Forum on November 12, where one will be awarded the $20,000 prize to develop their concept.
PHCCI chief executive Scott Ballem said Hedland's Big Pitch would become an important mechanism for growing the business community in Hedland.
'The chamber provides a broad range of services to support business growth, so we see this competition as a valuable mechanism for reaching budding entrepreneurs and supporting them to realise their dreams,' he said.
'It could be a tech idea that improves industry, or it could be expanding a hair salon to meet community demand.
'We are looking for anything that will improve the economy or liveability of Port Hedland because we want our business community to reflect the community needs.'
The program has received significant backing from BHP, with general manager of rail Kate Holling officially launching the initiative at the awards.
'This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting sustainable economic development in the Pilbara,' she said.
'It's about more than just funding — it's about fostering opportunity, confidence, and long-term impact.'
Applications for Hedland's Big Pitch are open until July 21. Interested applicants can request an application pack by emailing info@phcci.com.au.
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