Big Idea Competition accepting entries until Dec. 15

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Interested in winning $25,000 for your business idea? Be sure to enter the 2018 Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition by Dec. 15.

Those interested should complete their Intent to Complete form, before 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 15. The form only requires contact information from the individual or team leader, their UF status (undergraduate, graduate or alumnus) and a brief description of their proposed venture or concept.

Eligible teams must have at least one enrolled UF student (2017-2018 academic year) in the venture as a member. Students or individuals who do not have a team, but are interested in collaborating with others, may submit a form to join an existing team.

The first drafts of competitor’s business plans are due April 5, 2018. The Big Idea Competition top 16 semifinalists will be announced April 9 and will present their final plans April 26. The top four teams will advance to the final round on April 27.

The first-place winner will take home $25,000. Second and third place winners will receive $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.

The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation offers help for contestants developing their business plans in its Business Plan Lab, which can be taken for credit or as an optional free workshop. Judges will review the complete business plans on the following criteria: concept strength, market, economics of the business, operations, management team and financing.

The Big Idea Competition, now in its fifth year, is hosted by the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center at the Warrington College of Business. Band.It, an accessory made to protect and provide grip on camera lenses, won first-place last year.

For more information on how to participate in the Big Idea Competition, please visit the Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition. For questions about the Big Idea Competition, contact the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Center via email or Nola Miyasaki at 352-273-0336.