Dave Peck, Head of Social Media, PayPal

 

 

SXSW is a little less than a month away… and we want to challenge you to a duel!

 

More precisely, the PayPal SXSW Duel. We’ve teamed up with Shark Tank investor Daymond John to give a once in a lifetime opportunity to a small business that’s providing its customers with a unique shopping experience. Moving money from one place to another may be what we’re known for, but adding speed and convenience for shoppers and spurring growth for small businesses is where we really shine. This is why we are excited to tell you about this awesome contest.

 

 

Here’s how it works: from now through February 28, we’re giving you the chance to vote for your favorite of six exceptional small businesses (more on them in a minute). The two businesses with the most votes will then travel to SXSW to pitch their company to Daymond on stage at the PayPal Social Media Lounge.

 

I’m sure by now you’re wondering what the prize is. Oh, just the chance to win $30,000 from PayPal and one-on-one consulting with Daymond himself. PayPal will also throw in small business products and guidance to help the winning company turn that $30,000 investment into the possibility of lasting growth. Rules apply. Complete rules can be found here.

 

Here’s a bit more on the six competing companies:

Earhoox—Earhoox stretch onto any earbuds and offer a secure fit—no matter your activity or ear shape. Because earbuds should comfortably stay in your ear. Hemingwrite—Hemingwrite is a minimalist digital typewriter that combines the simplicity of a typewriter with modern technology, like an electronic paper screen and cloud backups to create the best possible writing experience. Matador— Matador is a blanket that fits in your pocket, but keeps you clean, dry and comfortable when you want to lay down in the grass. Peanut Butter Americano— The most delicious (think flavors like cinnamon honey and dark chocolate) and socially beneficial (a portion of proceeds go to support relief work in the Western Hemisphere) nut butters on the planet come from Peanut Butter Americano. Prynt—Prynt allows you to simply plug your smartphone into the case and print any photo you take on the spot—just like an old-fashioned Polaroid. Urban Cheesecraft—Urban Cheesecraft provides DIY kits and supplies to make fresh cheeses in your home.

 

Head to PayPal-SXSWDuel.com to cast your vote and chime in on Twitter using #PayPalDuel to tell us who your favorite small business is and why. Hope to see you in Austin, but if you can’t make it to SXSW this year, follow the Duel pitches and all the action on our YouTube channel at 2 p.m. CT on March 14.

Original author: PayPal-Forward