Nestlé Purina PetCare hosting pet care event

Nestlé Purina PetCare is excited to announce the Capital Region Pet Care Entrepreneur Event, scheduled for September 5, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Nestlé USA's headquarters in Rosslyn, Arlington. This event is open to both budding and experienced pet care entrepreneurs, providing them with a platform to network, engage with industry experts and participate in a live pitch competition featuring $15,000 in cash prizes.

This event is part of Purina's annual PetCare Innovation Prize program, which aims to support and recognize innovators who are shaping the future of pet care. The program, in collaboration with the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) and Maryland's TEDCO, invites entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas for a chance to win substantial prizes.

Event Highlights:

• Networking and Expert Panels: Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders and potential investors while enjoying food and beverages

• Pitch Competition: Entrepreneurs can compete for the following prizes:

  • $5,000 for the best pitch from Maryland, sponsored by TEDCO
  • $5,000 for the best pitch from Virginia, sponsored by VIPC
  • $5,000 for the best overall pitch, sponsored by Purina

Entrepreneurs interested in attending the event or entering the pitch competition can register here. Applications for the pitch competition must be submitted by September 1, 2024. Selected top applicants will pitch their business ideas via Zoom, with finalists advancing to present live at the event on September 5.

The PetCare Innovation Prize is a collaborative initiative by Purina's 9 Square Ventures corporate venturing group and Active Capital, aimed at supporting early-stage pet care startups that are already in the market. These startups are focused on innovative solutions in pet health and wellness, services, technology, and pet food, treats or litter.

Since its founding in 2014, 9 Square Ventures has leveraged Purina’s extensive knowledge, experience and financial resources to help emerging pet care startups grow and positively impact pets and their owners. The group has made significant investments in a diverse array of early-stage companies within the pet care sector.

For more information, please contact: [email protected].