Format

Students will compete for a share of funding and mentorship opportunities to help develop and grow their business idea. The Challenge is split into two phases.

Written business plan

The first phase includes two participant workshops on topics such as identifying problems in a business idea and managing the finances of a start-up, as well as a feedback session with an established entrepreneur. Phase one will culminate in the submission of a written business plan.

The written business plan must be submitted on 81/2’x11’ paper and is limited to five pages.

Live business pitch

The top five ideas, as judged by the written business plans, will be invited to pitch their idea to our panel of judges. Each team will have 10 minutes for a verbal/audio/visual presentation. The time will be broken down into two minutes for introductions, five minutes for the presentation and three minutes for a question and answer period.

Prizes

The teams competing in the live business pitch will be eligible to win the following prizes:

• First place: $5,000
• Second place: $4,000
• Third place: $3,000
• Fourth place: $2,000
• Fifth place: $1,000

The prize structure is subject to change without notice.