SoundingBoard Program

The SoundingBoard program is a presentation and feedback program for innovative and scaleable businesses looking to raise early stage capital. SoundingBoard will be held in conjunction with three of the regular monthly GCVA luncheon meetings. Check the calendar for dates.

SoundingBoard provides aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to receive coaching from seasoned entrepreneurs or assistance providers as they prepare their business/strategic plan. The entrepreneur then has the opportunity to present the plan to a panel of subject matter experts who will provide feedback on the plan. The subject matter experts include: angels, seed capital funds, venture capitalists, accountants, lawyers, intellectual property specialists, seasoned entrepreneurs, business assistance providers, management and marketing specialists, university entrepreneurship specialists and representatives from pillar companies. The entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to network with the panelists and audience after the presentations.

Presentations may be up to 10 minutes long, followed by 10-20 minutes of questions & answers. As part of each business plan review, SoundingBoard provides insight and guidance on the plan. Participants receive feedback from the SoundingBoard Panel and the audience via feedback sheets.

Benefits to entrepreneurs:

1. Coaching
2. Presentation Practice
3. High Level Feedback
4. Access to Subject Matter Experts
5. Networking
6. Access to Potential Capital Sources

Selection Process: To be considered, submit an Presenter application form. About 30 days prior to each SoundingBoard session, the GCVA's Presenter's Committee will review applications and select three companies to present. All accepted companies will be provided with the GCVA Powerpoint Presentation Outline (sample here) and will be assigned a business coach. The Powerpoint presentation for each company will be due no less than one (1) week prior to the GCVA Meeting date.

Questions, issues or comments: Please contact the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber at 513-579-3111.