Aiken Chamber of Commerce to Host ‘No Boundaries Entrepreneurship Pitch Contest’

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Partnering with Make Startups and theClubhou.se to Foster Regional Innovation

Aiken, SC – The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the No Boundaries Startup Pitch Contest, on April 23, 2025.  Designed to propel innovative business ideas across the Greater Aiken-Augusta region by fostering collaboration and investment beyond traditional geographic limits, applications to pitch and event tickets are now available.

For more details on attending or participating, visit www.noboundaries.io.

The Aiken Chamber is proud to partner with Make Startups and theClubhou.se, two nationally recognized organizations in startup development, to provide entrepreneurs with an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their ventures, gain industry insights, and compete for vital resources to accelerate their growth.

“The No Boundaries Pitch Contest is more than just a competition—it’s a movement to cultivate an entrepreneurial ecosystem in our region,” said Jim Tunison, President/CEO of the Aiken Chamber. “By breaking down traditional barriers, we are strengthening the foundation for a thriving innovation economy that benefits businesses, investors, and our community as a whole.”

“Wells Fargo is proud to support Make Startups and their No Boundaries program to empower local entrepreneurs,” said Kristina Christy, Vice President, Philanthropic and Community Impact for Wells Fargo. “As the Bank of Doing, Wells Fargo takes action to create meaningful progress for customers and communities. Small businesses are the backbone of our communities in the Augusta-Aiken region – and we’re committed to making meaningful investments to help them succeed.”

The contest will bring together 70-150 of the region’s most promising entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to a panel of experienced judges, including investors, business leaders, and innovation experts. In addition to competing for financial prizes and investment opportunities, participants will gain access to invaluable mentorship, networking, and visibility within the startup ecosystem.

This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of Wells Fargo, the South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA), the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, PD Newsom Private Capital, Make Startups, Western SC EDP and theClubhou.se. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering regional economic growth.

The No Boundaries Startup Pitch Contest is a key initiative within the Aiken Chamber’s broader vision of fostering an innovation district, supporting local business development, and driving economic growth. Events like this help attract new talent, support business diversification, and create opportunities for high-growth industries.

The event will also serve as a platform to highlight investment potential in the region, encouraging collaboration between entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders to drive forward a future without boundaries.

About the Aiken Chamber of Commerce

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce serves as a catalyst for business growth, a convener for leaders and influencers, and a champion for a stronger community. With a focus on fostering a diverse and thriving economy, the Chamber is committed to supporting businesses through advocacy, networking, and economic development initiatives.

About Make Startups & theClubhou.se

Make Startups is dedicated to empowering startup ecosystem development by improving regional capacity, capital, and connectivity. theClubhou.se serves as Aiken-Augusta’s hub for innovation. Supporting over 2,000 regional startups, theClubhou.se provides coworking space, technical support, and startup acceleration programs to foster regional growth.

About the South Carolina Research Authority

The South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a state-chartered organization dedicated to fueling innovation and economic growth across South Carolina. Through strategic investments, mentorship, and support for technology-based startups, academic research, and industry collaborations, SCRA accelerates the development of high-impact solutions that drive the state’s knowledge economy. Learn more at www.scra.org.

About Western SC EDP

The Western SC Economic Development Partnership (Western SC EDP) is committed to fostering economic growth and job creation in Aiken, Edgefield, McCormick, and Saluda counties. By attracting new businesses, supporting existing industries, and leveraging regional resources, Western SC EDP helps drive sustainable development and enhance the region’s economic vitality. Learn more at www.westernsc.org.

About Paul?

For more details on attending or participating, visit www.noboundaries.io.