Have a business idea you want to share? College of Western Idaho (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab invites students, employees, and community members to participate in OtterTank, presented by First Federal Bank, on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at the Nampa Campus CapEd Student Success Center.
Hosted twice each year, OtterTank is an energetic showcase inspired by the television series Shark Tank. Participants pitch business ideas, side hustles, and early-stage ventures through elevator pitches, interactive displays, and live presentations. Finalists take the stage for a chance to win prize money to help bring their ideas to life, with winners selected by audience vote.
“There are so many great business ideas in our community, and OtterTank gives people a chance to share them,” said Director of the CWI Entrepreneur Lab, Kenton Lee. “We want entrepreneurs to feel comfortable putting their ideas out there, getting feedback, and taking the next step toward making those ideas a reality.”
Leading up to the event, the Entrepreneur Lab works closely with participants, providing mentorship and hands-on guidance to refine business plans, strengthen value propositions, and test new concepts.
This fall, entrepreneurs will compete for $7,750 in cash prizes, including:
- One $3,000 grand prize
- Two $1,000 prizes
- Four $500 prizes
- Two $250 prizes
- One $250 Crowd Favorite award
Community members are encouraged to attend, meet the entrepreneurs, and learn about their business ideas. Attendees will also have a chance to vote for their favorite business, with the winner receiving the $250 Crowd Favorite award.
OtterTank is open to students, faculty, staff, and community members interested in competing or attending.
Learn more about OtterTank and opportunities to participate through the CWI Entrepreneur Lab.
