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Wheeling small businesses and entrepreneurs with a vision that needs financed have the opportunity to compete for at least $3,000 this month.
Applications are due by the end of the day Thursday from those wanting to present their vision at the next "Show of Hands" competition, sponsored by Wheeling Heritage. The event takes place starting at 6 p.m. Jan. 23 at the Wheeling Artisan Center, with presentations from competitors starting at 6:30 p.m.
The application form is available online at wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands-application. Applicants are asked to describe their projects, how it will benefit the city, and how progress will be reported. Tax identification information and references also are required.
Wheeling Heritage then will select four applicants to present at the Jan. 23 event.
The Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP law firm is the corporate sponsor for Show of Hands with other donors and businesses contributing additional funds. Attendees pay $5 each for dinner, and the privilege of voting on which of the presentations they deem most worthy. The winning presenter receives a minimum of $3,000, and all money collected at the door also goes to the winner.
The amount continues to grow with each event, which is becoming a popular party in Wheeling. Recent events have attracted more than 400 people.
In September, Attention to Detail, at 452 Main St., received a check for $5,214 after winning Show of Hands. The business' owners plan put the money toward construction of a steel building this summer that will allow them to detail automobiles inside throughout the year.
In May, Sarah's on Main owner Sarah Lydick took home $5,865 to construct an outside garden outside her French style bakery. The business at 2122 Main St. opened in late summer.
A year ago, young Zeb Helmick -- who was just 9 at the time -- and his dad, Steve, won $4,270 as owners of "Zeb's Barky Bites." The business produces dog biscuits, and is now operating in Centre Market.