T

he city of Selma could always use more businesses and jobs, and a local contest is making that a possibility.

The second annual Business Pitch Contest, hosted by Ceyero Consulting and the Booker T. Washington Economic Summit at Tuskegee University, is giving inventors and entrepreneurs a platform to pitch their ideas to a panel of businessmen.

The contest is scheduled for March 27 from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the St. James Hotel.

The opportunity could help someone with an idea for a product or business get the help and support they need to get their business started.

The winners will receive cash prizes of $2,500 for first place, $750 for second place and $350 for third place.

While the amount may not seem like much, any investment into an idea or business can give it the spark it needs.

The contest is very similar to ABC’s “Shark Tank,” which gives contestants a similar opportunity. Just like the contestants on that show, Selma’s contestants could be able to benefit greatly from having someone listen to their idea.

The cash prize could not only help them start a business or perfect a product, but it could also allow them to get valuable input that can make their business or product idea even better.

The smallest ideas could lead to great things for Selma, such as jobs. Job creation, no matter the amount, is a great thing in a community that allows it to grow and prosper.

People in Selma and Dallas County should participate in the contest to help make Selma a better place and inspire people to open businesses in the Queen City.