Business Plan Competition Tracks
There are two tracks in this competition. Students can choose either one of them to apply.
NextGen Innovators Track!
Hey Future Innovators!
Are you brimming with ideas that could change the world? Got a business concept that’s been simmering in your mind? It’s time to bring those ideas to life! We’re thrilled to invite applications for our "NextGen Innovators Track" in our Annual Business Plan Competition.
What’s This Track All About?
For emerging entrepreneurs: This is your stage – whether you’re a solo dreamer or part of a dynamic team.
Ideas of All Flavors: Traditional business, cutting-edge digital tech, unique products, or never-seen-before services – if you’ve got an idea, we’re here to listen.
No Business? No Problem! You don’t need an established business to apply. Just an idea and the passion to pursue it.
Criteria for Application
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Innovativeness: The ideas should offer a new solution, product, or approach. They should demonstrate a clear understanding of the intended market and potential challenges.
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Feasibility: While ideas may be in the early stages, there should be a realistic pathway to implementation and success.
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Impact: Proposals should articulate the potential impact, including but not limited to economic, social, environmental, or technological advancements.
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Team Composition: Open to individual or team (max 3) submissions.
Why Apply?
- Launch Your Idea: Turn your new idea into real-world impact.
- Network: Connect with mentors, industry leaders, and fellow innovators.
- Skill Up: Workshops and feedback sessions to refine your idea.
- Prizes: Win funding, resources, and support to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.
Community Roots Track
This track celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit in its most traditional and accessible form, recognizing the significance of small, local businesses that may operate as part-time or 'side hustles.' These enterprises contribute to the enrichment of our communities and economies, and our goal is to facilitate their growth and development.
Track Focus: The Community Roots Track centers on traditional, community-oriented businesses, including family enterprises and local ventures. It is designed for students who are actively involved in entrepreneurial activities, even on a small scale. The track's purpose is to assist them in formalizing, expanding, and garnering support and recognition for their existing ventures. These businesses, deeply rooted in our communities, address everyday needs and have grown from familiar and personal foundations.
Track Definition: This track is dedicated to individuals or teams engaged in or planning to initiate small-scale, community-focused, or family-run businesses. It is tailored to provide support for ventures that may not rely on cutting-edge technology or radical innovation but nevertheless play a crucial role in our local economies and communities
Criteria for Applications
Business Maturity: Open to existing small-scale ventures or well-structured plans for imminent startups. Preference for businesses that have demonstrated some level of operation, even if informal.
Community Impact: Proposals should highlight how the business benefits, serves, or is integrated into the local community. This could be through providing essential services needed in the community, contributing to the local culture and economy, or family legacy
Sustainability and Growth Potential: While the businesses may be modest in scale, there should be a clear vision for sustainability and/or potential for growth. Applicants should articulate how they plan to use funds to maintain or expand their business.
Team Composition: Welcoming individual entrepreneurs or teams (maximum 3 members) who are deeply involved in their business, including businesses involving family, friends, or community collaborations.