The Visalia Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Visalia Convention Center, Fresno Pacific University-Visalia Campus, Visalia First Assembly of God and Tucoemas Federal Credit Union, is accepting proposals for the inaugural Visalia SOUP event set for March 14.

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The SOUP is a community-based crowdfunding dinner that promotes community development through crowdfunding, creativity, collaboration, democracy, trust and fun, according to a news release. The concept first started in Detroit.

Supporting the entrepreneurial spirit, Visalia SOUP creates a venue where presenters can share their ideas with community members and garner support and funding for projects that will make a lasting impact. It is intended as a way for entrepreneurs to raise money to get their business ideas off the ground, build community support and make connections with local resources that may help them.

A recommended donation of $5 grants entry to the event, entitling attendees to soup, bread and a vote. Attendees then hear from four presenters, who have four minutes each to describe their idea to the group, without the use of technology, and answer questions from the audience. In the end, attendees vote on the project they think would benefit the city the most and the winner goes home with the money raised.

Presentation proposals can be about a new or expanding business, a community project or an event. It is not required for applicants to live in Visalia. Proposals must be submitted by Feb. 21 via www.visalischamber.org/visalia-soup-proposal

For more information about SOUP, visit www.visaliachamber.org/soup