Regional entrepreneurs and small business owners can soon enter an online contest and compete for a chance to win up to $15,000. This marks the third year Des Moines Area Community College Business Resources and Iowa Innovation Gateway have partnered with the University of Northern Iowa to offer the online contest, titled “Dream Big Grow Here.”
Contestants can win cash and gain statewide publicity by competing in one of multiple online contests, followed by a statewide Pitch-Off event during the annual EntreFest! conference.
"Dream Big Grow Here" offers entrepreneurs an opportunity to upload their business startup and growth ideas online at www.DreamBigGrowHere.com then encourage customers, friends, family and community members to vote for them. The winner of each regional contest receives a $5,000 cash award and a chance to compete for $10,000 in a live, pitch-off during the statewide EntreFest! conference.
Applications may be submitted between Sept. 5 and 27 with online voting taking place from Oct. 1 to 15. The top four vote getters and one wildcard contestant will compete in a pitch-off in November.
“The pitch-off winner receives a $5,000 cash prize, various promotional pieces and business coaching to help prepare for the state-wide pitch-off,” said DMACC Business Solutions Consultant Jacki Boldt.
Three informational sessions will be held for anyone interested in participating in the “Dream Big Grow Here” competition. Session attendance is not required to participate in the competition, but will provide information on the process and tips for success. The sessions will be from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 21, in the DMACC Newton Campus Room 213.
Registration for informational session is required. Register by contacting Jacki Boldt at jlboldt@dmacc.edu.
The lead sponsor for “Dream Big Grow Here 2013” is the Iowa Bankers Association.
“Dream Big Grow Here” is sponsored by the University of Northern Iowa MyEntreNet, the Iowa Bankers Association, Renew Rural Iowa, ISU Community Vitality Center, Iowa Economic Development Authority, VentureNet, Delta Dental of Iowa and the Technology Association of Iowa.
For more information and complete rules, visit www.DreamBig GrowHere.com or contact Jacki Boldt at jlboldt@dmacc.edu or (515) 965-7311.