SOU’s Business Venture Tournament quest culminates in the:
2024 Venture Awards Gala
(a FREE small business and entrepreneurship support and networking event open to all)
Thursday, June 6th
5:00 – 6:30 PM
SOU Britt Hall, Room 217 (Top Floor)
Dive into the excitement inspired by “Shark Tank” at the Southern Oregon University Business Venture Tournament (BVT) Venture Awards Gala on June 6th! 
In partnership with Ashland Food Co-op!
This FREE event is your ticket to small business support and networking, open to all – students, faculty, staff, aspiring entrepreneurs, and community members! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect and thrive!
FREE WHAT? Entrance, food, beverages, wine (21+ with ID), networking, and fun! Plus, a special treat! Special thanks to Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker in Ashland for generously donating a sampling of delicious artisan chocolates.
Come and make history with us by being a part of BVT’s inaugural year as we celebrate the culmination of our remarkable student competition! Witness the final pitches of ventures that are sure to inspire. Don’t miss the excitement as we vote for and crown the winners during the gala, where the top prize includes $3,000 in award money!
This gathering isn’t just for participants; it’s a valuable resource for local small businesses, entrepreneurs, startups, and those passionate about sustainability. Bring along your business cards and take advantage of the opportunity to connect with our sponsors and table hosts. Discover invaluable resources and gain insightful expert entrepreneurial advice from:
Ashland Food Co-op (Gold Sponsor)
Southern Oregon Wilderness Adventures (Sponsor)
SOU Institute of Applied Sustainability (Sponsor)
Talent Maker City (Sponsor)
SOU Small Business Development Center, free small business resources
SCORE Jackson County, free small business mentorship program
Rogue To-Go, a non-profit reusable food container program in Ashland, OR and growing
Rogue Valley Women In Business & Jasmine and Juniper, LLC
Lany Sullivan LLC, Operations Management Consulting & Luxury Business Retreats
Many, many thanks to participating sponsors and supporters of the Business Venture Tournament!
FREE food including seasonal produce from The Farm at SOU, sweet treats including artisan chocolates, beverages, wine (21+ with ID), networking, and inspiration!
RSVP before 6/6 and attend the Awards Gala, and you could win a door prize gift certificate for Ashland Food Co-op!
SOU Students Only for Grand Door Prize: If you’re an SOU student, vote for your favorite venture pitches on the website before 12 PM on June 6 AND attend the Awards Gala at 5 PM for a chance to win our special indoor prize: a $500 gift certificate to spend on rentals and outdoor adventures provided by Southern Oregon Wilderness Adventures (rafting, boating, jet skiing, glamping, 4×4 off-roading, limo rental, and more as options)! The door prize winner will be announced at the end of the program with an opportunity to meet owner, Jason Asbill.
Accessibility / How to Get to Britt Hall Room 217:
The best way to get to the Awards Gala event is to stay outside to admire SOU’s landscaping and walk to the “back” of Britt Hall (Lot 29 parking lot is in the “front”). There is an exterior staircase and an elevator to take you to the top floor of historic Britt Hall. The main Awards Gala program will take place in Room 217, with networking and refreshments in the outer lounge.
How to Get to Britt Hall / Where to Park:
Please consider your environmentally friendly options when getting to Southern Oregon University. Click on this handy Sustainable Transportation slideshow guide to learn about convenient bus stops, visitor parking areas, electric vehicle charging stations, bike parking, and more.