Wheeling Heritage’s Show of Hands program is hitting a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th year of empowering local entrepreneurs. Those with an idea for a new business, a business expansion, or a project that will impact Wheeling, are encouraged to apply by visiting Wheeling Heritage’s website by Nov. 12. Four business owners will be selected to pitch their ideas at the next Show of Hands scheduled for Jan. 31.
At the event, four presenters will explain their ideas to community members in attendance. Attendees vote on their favorite, and the presenter who receives the most votes receives $4,000, plus door donations, to put towards the project. To date, Show of Hands has given more than $123,000 to 31 projects.
The next Show of Hands event is scheduled for January 31 at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Artisan Center, located at 1400 Main Street in Wheeling. Attendees pay $5 at the door, which is added to the winner’s prize.
The latest Show of Hands winner was Adam Payne, founder of YNST Magazine. Payne created YNST Magazine to amplify the unseen creative voices of Appalachia’s arts and culture. He was awarded more than $7,000 to support his publication.
In an interview with Wheeling Heritage, Payne stated that “Show of Hands is so special because you get to see the community supporting small businesses in real time. The energy and support we, and the other presenters, received was absolutely wonderful. Using the resources we received in Show of Hands, we will be able to increase our marketing and distribution, participate in numerous vending events in the state this year, and gear up to launch our next issue.”
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 ten years of partnering with our friends to support small businesses in our community.”
Orrick, the program’s corporate sponsor, donates $1,000 for each event. The Friends of Show of Hands, which consists of community members and business owners, contribute $250 to each event. Friends of Show of Hands include Bridgeway Capital; Brian Joseph, Touchstone Research Laboratory; Dave and Beth Weaver, Wheeling Volkswagen & Subaru; Dr. & Mrs. Dan Joseph, Joseph Orthodontics; FXB; Fuzz & Barb LaRue; H. Lawrence Jones & Sue Blevins; Kennen & Kennen Realtors; Rabbi Joshua Lief & Rebecca Lief; Sikora Montessori; Steve & Jackie Johnston; Warwood Armature; Will and Tracey Turani; and anonymous donors.
Learn more about Show of Hands and apply online by visiting wheelingheritage.org/show-of-hands.
About Wheeling Heritage
Wheeling Heritage is a catalyst for the revitalization of Wheeling. Through historic preservation, community development, and the arts, we help to tell Wheeling’s story and shape its future. We seek to improve the quality of life in Wheeling by preserving and investing in our city, collaborating with others, and engaging the citizens of Wheeling in our work.