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Applications are open for the Fortress Bank Tank Contest

Pitch your business idea at the Bank Tank event in Davenport for a chance to win $20,000.

DAVENPORT, Iowa — Fortress Bank's Bank Tank Event is returning to Davenport in February, giving small business owners and prospective entrepreneurs the chance to win $20,000.

Applications for the live event are open until Jan. 17. A selection committee will review all applications and select three finalists to pitch their ideas live. 

The pitch contest will take place on Feb. 22 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a live audience at a location to be determined. You can RSVP for the live audience here.

Here are the criteria for entrepreneurs to enter in the Shark Tank-style contest:

  • Applicants must be 18 years old or older.
  • Applicants must live or do business in the Quad Cities, Central Illinois, Western Illinois, or Des Moines.
  • Business must be for-profit.
  • If chosen for the next round, applicants will be required to submit a business plan.
  • Applicants do not have to be a customer of Fortress Bank to participate.
  • Fortress Bank employees and members of the Board of Directors are ineligible.

Applications will stay confidential unless chosen as one of three finalists. The winner of the $20,000 prize will be selected by the panel at the live event after each entrepreneur gives a 10-minute presentation. Selection will be based on scores given to four categories — idea, business plan, presentation, and financials. 

For additional small business resources and questions about the Bank Tank, contact thebanktank@bankfortress.com.

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