LEWISTON — It’s not just bragging rights that are at stake, but also a shot at winning $25,000. Five local businesses have been honing their Top Gun skills ahead of judgment day, Thursday, May 12, in front of members of the Lewiston Auburn Metro Chamber of Commerce at the organization’s regional pitch-off breakfast.

All the businesses have completed a five-month program to get them ready for the competition. Each one will pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges and the audience. One winner will advance to the state level competition, which will be held May 26.

Shanna Cox, president and chief executive officer, said the chamber’s Top Gun program was specifically designed for the entrepreneur who wants to grow their business and achieve longterm success using the right tools, resources and related mentorship. The program combines hands-on mentoring and weekly meetings featuring expert presenters on topics related to business growth.

The five businesses competing this year are:

Abdirahman Saeed and Abdinur Mohamed of Black Diamond Detailing

Diana DeJesus and Robert Washington of Maine Event Brew Tours

Malik Hall of Teach 2 MOVE

Elizabeth Pajak of Allspeed Tech Tutors

​​Jodi Breau of Dental Lace Inc.

This year’s judges are:

Dan Keely, Poly Labs

Adilah Muhammad, The Third Place

Lori Allen, Small Business Development Center