**What Is it?**
# 99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One ## Overview **99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One** is a community entrepreneurship program hosted by **The Fledge** in Lansing, Michigan. The program creates a collaborative space where entrepreneurs, innovators, and community members gather to discuss real business challenges and work together to develop solutions. Unlike traditional pitch events that focus on presenting ideas to judges or investors, this program emphasizes **problem-solving, collaboration, and learning** rather than competition. Participants bring real challenges they are facing in their businesses, and the community works together to explore possible solutions. ## Purpose The program was created to shift the focus of entrepreneurial gatherings away from pitching and toward **collective problem-solving**. Key goals include: - Helping entrepreneurs overcome real operational challenges - Creating a supportive learning community - Encouraging peer mentorship and shared experience - Reducing the pressure associated with traditional pitch competitions - Strengthening relationships between entrepreneurs The premise is simple: Entrepreneurs rarely fail because they cannot pitch an idea. They struggle because they face **many problems while building their businesses**. This program addresses those problems directly. ## Format Events typically follow a structured but informal format. ### 1. Problem Presentation An entrepreneur presents a specific challenge they are facing. Examples may include: - pricing strategy - marketing challenges - customer acquisition - operational bottlenecks - team management - access to capital The goal is not to pitch a polished idea, but to **clearly describe the problem**. ### 2. Clarifying Questions Participants ask questions to better understand the situation and the context of the problem. This stage helps ensure that the group is focusing on the **root issue rather than symptoms**. ### 3. Community Brainstorming The room collaborates to generate ideas, suggestions, and perspectives. Participants may offer: - practical advice - relevant experiences - potential connections - new ways of thinking about the problem ### 4. Reflection The entrepreneur reflects on the ideas shared and identifies possible next steps. The goal is that they leave with: - new insights - actionable strategies - additional connections within the community ## Why This Approach Matters Many entrepreneurial events focus on **presentation rather than progress**. Pitch competitions often reward storytelling and presentation skills rather than addressing the practical challenges entrepreneurs face. By contrast, **99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One** focuses on: - learning - community support - collaborative problem-solving This approach encourages vulnerability and honest conversation about the realities of building a business. ## Community Benefits Programs like this help strengthen local entrepreneurial ecosystems by: - connecting entrepreneurs with peers and mentors - sharing practical knowledge across industries - building trust within the entrepreneurial community - encouraging collaboration rather than competition Participants often discover that **other entrepreneurs have faced similar problems**, which reduces isolation and accelerates learning. ## Connection to the Entrepreneurial Journey This program is closely connected to **The Fledge’s Entrepreneurial Journey program**, which supports founders through the process of exploring, validating, launching, and growing their businesses. Within that journey, **99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One** serves as a recurring forum where entrepreneurs can bring challenges and receive support from the community. ## Philosophy The program is grounded in a simple belief: Entrepreneurship is not a solo activity. It is a **shared process of learning, experimentation, and collaboration**. When entrepreneurs help each other solve problems, the entire ecosystem becomes stronger. ## See Also - The Fledge - Entrepreneurial Journey - Michigan Entrepreneurial Ecosystem - Inclusive Entrepreneurship - Community Economic Development