Have an idea? Pitch it to Houston version of 'Shark Tank'

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you've got the next big idea, there's a place in Houston where you can pitch it, fund it, and make it happen.

People call it Houston's version of the hit TV show "Shark Tank," and it's a great place to start a business.

It's called Start Houston, and entrepreneur Angela Anderson pitched her idea there. Facing a crowd of more than 100 mentors and investors, she presented her idea called Hippo Kitchen - a food preparation and delivery service for cancer patients.

"I've always watched "Shark Tank" and thought that's so interesting, but I will never do that. And then I did!" Anderson said.

Start Houston co-founder Apurva Sanghavi says taking that first leap, collaborating with others, and getting access to influential people is what his company is all about.

"A lot of people are like, 'Oh I have all these ideas and I have this grand notion on how to build a company, but I just don't know where to start.' So, obviously, start at Start," Sanghavi said.

In the heart of East Downtown, or EADO as the locals call it, tech companies are opening up, many with the help of Start.

If you think you're ready to pitch your product, Start Houston offers the "Shark Tank" experience every fourth Wednesday of the month. Only four entrepreneurs make the cut, so make sure you're fully prepared before applying.