Lots of people are talking about the importance of stimulating business growth in Northern Colorado, and the Monfort College of Business is doing something about it.“We’re launching the Monfort College of Business Entrepreneurial Challenge,” said David Thomas, assistant professor of Management. “It’s an exciting competition and one-day event designed to help those with an entrepreneurial spirit—and those who support innovative thinking and business growth— to take it to the next level,” he continued.
There are two categories of competition: Start Up Ventures and Stage Two Growth (the latter for companies wishing to take their company to the next level). “This is a great opportunity for people who have an idea for a new business to get some seed money for their project. It’s also a terrific way for existing businesses to get financial help for their next stage of growth,” Thomas said.
There will be three award winners in each category: $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second and $1,000 for third, for a total of $18,000 in prize money. Entries are due before January 15, 2010, with guidelines and entry information available at www.mcb-echallenge.com . 29 finalists will be selected from the entries, and will be notified on Feb. 5, 2010. Finalists will then submit a $100 entry fee, and have until March 25 to prepare their business plan presentation for the competition at the Monfort College of Business Entrepreneurial Challenge on March 25 at the University of Northern Colorado.
“The event will consist of workshops, the competition and a luncheon, which is part of the Business Plus Speakers Series,” Thomas said. Workshops will provide guidance and information about writing business plans, financing new ventures and more. There will also be opportunities for networking with top business owners and thinkers in Northern Colorado during the event.
“At the Monfort College of Business, we believe it’s our responsibility to the business community to provide opportunities for growth, education and success,” said Don Gudmundson, dean of the College. “We believe there are many people out there with great ideas, who just need a little incentive to get motivated.”
For those who have a big idea but need a little assistance in preparing their entry or business plan, help is available through the Small Business Development Center. Contact Audrey Nelson at (970) 352-3661 or Audrey.nelson@unco.edu.