CAMBRIDGE — The Dorchester County Economic Development office has sponsored a visit and partnered with Startup Maryland in rallying entrepreneurs to share their story, pitch and encourage economic growth in the county.

Touring approximately 20 days, Startup MD promotes innovation of the state’s finest new and seasoned businesses. The tour begins Sept. 15, stopping at economic development agencies, universities, incubators and municipalities to meet, promote and celebrate entrepreneurship at a grass-roots level. According to the Startup MD website, pitching is tied to four initiatives: raising awareness, access to capital, resource mapping, and revenue opportunities/corporate connections.

The bus will visit Dorchester County and stop at the Hooper’s Island Oyster Aquaculture Company for their Day-by-the Bay celebration planned for Sept. 16. From 9 a.m.-1 p.m., businesses and entrepreneurs can pitch on the bus, and everyone is invited to sample fresh seafood at the chef cook-off. Entrepreneurs interested in pitching should sign up in advance.  Following the morning activities, the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce will hold an after-hour event to benefit IRONMAN-Maryland from 2-6 p.m.

A studio is placed in the back of the bus where entrepreneurs can film their story and feature their new venture. Startup Maryland provides a connection to an audience, peers and investors through promotion. Entrepreneurs should bring their “A” game, have fun and be prepared to celebrate this unique opportunity. Videos will be posted online for two voting competitions: Fan Favorites and Strongest Potential for High Growth. The top pitches will be reviewed by a set of esteemed institutional venture capitalist investors and angel investors.

All videos will be given to the entrepreneurs that pitch. If your story does not win the competition, you still receive a professional video with your pitch. Please contact the Dorchester Economic Development office if you would like to pitch on the bus during the Dorchester County stop.  all us at 410-228-0155 or e-mail sbanks@choosedorchester.org.

To learn more about Startup Maryland, please visit www.startupmd.org. For more information on the Day by the Bay, please visit the Hooper’s Island Oyster Aquaculture Company web site at www.hioac.com.