‘Shark Tank’ investor to judge Pa. women’s business competition

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The Business Plan Competition is open to women business owners in Pennsylvania who started their businesses on or after Jan. 1 2012.

Potential competitors can submit their intent to enter and then finalists will be chosen through an application and review process.

Finalists will the participate in a “Shark Tank”-style, fast-pitch business competition before a panel of three judges that includes Julia Hearthway, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, Renee Amor, founder and president of the Amoore Group Inc., and Lori Greiner, one of the investors on the ABC television show “Shark Tank” who refers to herself as the “warm-blooded shark.”

“NAWBO’s mission includes strengthening the wealth-creating capacity of our members and promoting economic development. We are proud to partner with the Pennsylvania Commission for Women to offer this incredible opportunity to emerging women business owners in our state,” said Julie Smith, President of NAWBO Greater Philadelphia.

Each of the three finalists will receive a one-year National Association of Women Business Owners membership or renewal. The winning business owner will receive $10,000 to assist in the implementation of her business plan. The competition is financed through private fundraising efforts.

Eligible business owners must submit an “intent to compete” form by Thursday, Aug. 14.

For additional information on the Business Plan Competition, including the rules and application process, please visit www.nawbopabizplancomp.org.