Hey, local entrepreneurs looking for funding, mentorship, and visibility—here’s your shot. Cleveland Chain Reaction is back for its eighth season, and applications are now open through Friday, June 20.

The annual pitch competition, organized by the Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE), connects local entrepreneurs with capital, expert coaching, and a supportive network. This year’s top three winners will receive $40,000, $20,000, and $10,000, respectively, along with advertising support and potential investment from judges and mentors.

Twenty semifinalists will be selected to attend a bootcamp hosted by JumpStart, where they’ll fine-tune their pitches ahead of showcase events on Aug. 20 and 21. Judges will include representatives from Medical Mutual, Minutemen Family of Companies, MAGNET, and other local partners.

“Cleveland Chain Reaction is one of my favorite programs,” said COSE executive director Megan E. Kim. “We have the unique opportunity to connect with passionate entrepreneurs who are ready to take their businesses to the next level.”

Last year’s winners included Balance Cheer and Gymnastics, which earned the $40,000 grand prize; modest fashion brand Covermecutee, which took second place; and CLE Urban Winery, which came in third. All three also received advertising support, including advertisements in FreshWater Cleveland.

Semifinalists will also be featured throughout the season on Fox 8’s “Kickin’ it with Kenny,” as well as in Mimi Magazine and FreshWater Cleveland.

Since its launch in 2017, the program has reviewed more than 590 applications, coached 146 semifinalists, and helped connect winning businesses to more than $1.8 million in capital. While the first few seasons focused on specific Cleveland neighborhoods, current participants can choose a location anywhere in Greater Cleveland that fits their goals.

The competition was inspired by “Cleveland Hustles,” the 2016 reality series produced by LeBron James, but has grown into its own independent initiative to support local entrepreneurship.

To learn more or apply, visit clevelandchainreaction.org.