Utah ‘Shark Tank’ Entrepreneurs to Share their Experiences at Economic Summit

Pete CodellaNews

There will be no shark sightings at the landlocked Utah Economic Summit—but there will be “Shark Tank” winners. Four Utah entrepreneurs will come together to share their expertise on the ultimate catch: funding for their bright ideas. “Swimming with Sharks” is just one of many sessions at the 10th annual summit.

Presenters include David Toledo with Power Practical, Pat Crowley with Chapul, Susan Petersen with Freshly Picked and Peter Thorpe with FireAvert. Each will share their experience on ABC’s reality TV show, “Shark Tank.” Three of the four entrepreneurs accepted funding from one of the “sharks” on the show, but one turned it down. Attendees will learn the ins and outs of the process and the best tips on when to say “yes” and when it’s best to say “no.”

“I’m passionate about entrepreneurship—from innovation, creativity and risk taking to the potential to create a positive impact in our communities,” said Pat Crowley, founder of Chapul. “I had a great experience on ‘Shark Tank,’ and I am looking forward to sharing my insights with the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

More than 23 percent of all employed Utahns owned their own business. First time entrepreneurs, students and otherwise, will have the opportunity to interact with and learn from the panelists’ varied journeys to success. The “Swimming with Sharks” session is expected to be a highlight of this year’s summit.

“We have a very strong tradition of entrepreneurship in Utah,” said Val Hale, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. “These particular entrepreneurs have had a very unique experience in building their companies. Couple that with their inventive ideas, and you have a breakout that really captures the spirit of this year’s innovation theme.”

The 10th Annual Utah Economic Summit will be hosted by Gov. Gary R. Herbert and presented by Zions Bank and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. This year’s theme, Innovate Utah! will celebrate and advance innovation across every Utah industry. Business and community leaders, as well as government officials, students, and educators are all encouraged to attend. The event will be held April 15 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.

Register today at www.UtahEconomicSummit.com .