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Wheeling Heritage's "Show of Hands" program celebrates its 10th year in 2024.
The event next returns at 6 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Wheeling Artisan Center. It provides entrepreneurs a chance to win money to finance their ideas for a prospective business, a business expansion, or a project that will positively impact Wheeling.
Those interested in presenting their ideas are encouraged to apply at wheelingheritage.org/ show-of-hands/ by Nov. 12.
At the Jan. 31 event, four presenters selected will go before attendees to pitch an idea they think is worth funding, and those in the audience will vote on which one they think is worthy of investment.
The presenter with the most votes receives at least $4,000 that has already been donated by sponsors, plus money collected at the door of the event.
Attendees pay $5 to enter, and this provides them a ballot and a buffet-style dinner.
Over the past decade, "Show of Hands" has handed out more than $123,000 to 31 projects, according to information provided by Alex Panas, program manager for Wheeling Heritage.
To celebrate a decade of supporting local businesses, Wheeling Heritage and the Show of Hands committee are preparing for some fun and surprises to commemorate the milestone.
"Small businesses are playing a critical role in the future of our downtown and in downtowns all across the country," said Scott Schenerlein, executive director at Wheeling Heritage. "This event that began years ago has helped to shape the landscape and spaces that you have come to enjoy today. Please join us as we celebrate 10 years of partnering with our friends to support small businesses in our community."