Salisbury, MD — Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc. (MCE), in collaboration with Somerville Consulting Group, LLC, is thrilled to announce the 2025 Shore and Soar Pitch Competition — an
exciting new initiative designed to elevate emerging businesses across Maryland’s Eastern Shore and beyond.
This first-of-its-kind program will provide small business owners with the chance to compete for cash prizes and invaluable support in their business growth journey. With up to $9,000 in total
prizes awarded on each side of the Chesapeake Bay, the competition offers $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $1,000 for third place in both Salisbury (Eastern Shore) and
Baltimore (over the bridge).
Who Should Apply
To be eligible, businesses must:
• Be in good financial standing with the Maryland Department of Assessment and Taxation.
• Be in a growth stage, with demonstrated efforts to expand operations, increase profits, and scale sustainably.
What to Expect
The Shore and Soar Pitch Competition includes a series of five required workshops hosted in Baltimore and Salisbury, running from July 22 through August 20, each designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen core aspects of their business. The final pitch competitions will be held on September 9 in Baltimore and September 10 in Salisbury.
Workshops are held from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM and cover:
• Program Overview: July 22 (Baltimore), July 23 (Salisbury)
• Crafting a Winning Capabilities Statement: July 29 (Baltimore), July 30 (Salisbury)
• Developing an Effective Marketing Plan: August 5 (Baltimore), August 6 (Salisbury)
• Planning for Financial Business Growth: August 12 (Baltimore), August 13 (Salisbury)
• Sustaining a Thriving Business: August 19 (Baltimore), August 20 (Salisbury)
In addition to the workshops, one-on-one mentoring will be provided throughout the process to ensure applicants are fully supported as they develop their pitch. Attendance at all workshops is
mandatory.
How to Apply
Interested entrepreneurs can apply by visiting: 👉 https://www.somervilleconsultinggroup.com
Application Deadline: June 27, 2025
About Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc. Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs across the Eastern Shore of Maryland and beyond. Through business education, consulting, and access to capital, MCE supports economic development and job creation in underserved communities.
About Somerville Consulting Group, LLC Somerville Consulting Group specializes in leadership development, strategic planning, and technical consulting services tailored to small business owners. Their mission is to help entrepreneurs soar by equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive.
For additional information, media inquiries, or interview requests, please contact Dory Hayman at dhayman@marylandcapital.org
