seCTer brought its brand of Shark Tank to eastern Connecticut in 2025 when it developed its Ledge Light Launch Pitch Competitions for area entrepreneurs.
Initiated by seCTer Economic Development Specialist Kait Ferrero and embraced by Board members who served as judges, the series awards each winner $7,500.
The competitions are helping to expand outreach efforts and raise awareness about seCTer’s programs among young entrepreneurs.
The inaugural Ledge Light Launch was held in June at Tox Brewing in New London followed by one in October at Epicure Brewery in Norwich. Both breweries are recipients of seCTer funding.
seCTer Board members Catherine Young and Maria Hanna agreed to serve as judges along with other local business leaders.
“We’ll continue the Ledge Light Launch series in 2026 based on the response to these first two pitch competitions,” said Executive Director Paul Whitescarver. “It’s another good way for us to get out in the community, and the breweries provide a relaxed atmosphere for some serious business.”
Stay tuned for news about seCTer’s first 2026 Ledge Light Launch Pitch Competition planned for early March.
