STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Ketchum Innovation Center (KIC) will host its first annual Startup Showcase from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 22.

Entrepreneurs, startups and existing businesses are encouraged to set up a booth at the KIC to showcase and discuss their projects, products and ideas with community members, members of the Sun Valley Band of Angels & Mentors and other potential investors.

The Norman Friedman Entrepreneur Award, a $1,000 cash prize donated by a local resident, will be awarded by a panel of judges from the KIC’s board and volunteer mentor group.

A number of non-cash prizes will also be awarded by Zions Bank. And winners will be given a month of free rent at the KIC, including desk space, free high-speed fiber Internet and use of the conference room.

Participants will be judged on the viability, impact and creativity.

The event is open to all entrepreneurs—from those with just an idea to those who are already generating revenue, said Jon Duval, executive director of the KIC. In addition to making pitches from a booth, there will be an opportunity for companies to give a short pitch to an audience.

Duval added that KIC hopes to make it an annual event.

Zions Bank will provide hors d’oeuvres and other refreshments.

For details, contact jon.duval@ketchuminnovationcenter.com or 208-727-2117.