Gwinnett start-ups with visionary business plans can compete for more than $25,000 in cash and prizes in the sixth annual Amazing Entrepreneur Contest launched today. The competition will recognize the best business plan summary in two categories: established business and pre-venture.
The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center has partnered with Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development and Partnership Gwinnett to host this contest since its inception in 2010.
"Partnership Gwinnett puts on this contest to help start-ups with their business plans and to introduce them to the many great resources in the region," stated Mark Farmer, director of entrepreneurship for Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development and Partnership Gwinnett. "We're looking forward to once again connecting with many of our county's new entrepreneurs."
The established business category is open to Gwinnett companies with a current business license that have been in operation for up to 36 months. The pre-venture category is open to Gwinnett residents who have a business idea, but are not yet in operation.
In addition to the $5,000 cash award, the grand prize winner will receive:
• consultation with Arnall Golden Gregory, ($3,000 value), start-up consulting with Sterling Rose Consulting,
• one-year Gwinnett Chamber membership ($500 minimum value),
• passes to attend the Chamber's Small Business Summit ($120 value),
• scholarship to the SBDC Grow Smart program ($985 value)
• and a brand identity design (including logo and printed material design from Von Lea Creative Group, Inc. valued at $2,000), among other prizes.
The winner of the pre-venture category will receive:
• start-up consulting with Sterling Rose Consulting,
• scholarship to the SBDC Start Smart program ($495 value),
• brand identify design (including logo and printed material design from Von Lea Creative Group, Inc. valued at $1,300),
• accounting services from John Dillard, CPA ($300 value) and more.
New this year, all finalists in both categories will receive a three-hour, hands-on workshop with "Pitch Master Chan" at PowerSlide on how to prepare their content and oral presentation for delivery to the selection committee ($3,000 value).
"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the source of job creation for hard-working people in this community," stated Gwinnett County commission chairman Charlotte Nash. "The Amazing Entrepreneur Contest provides the support that start-ups need and encourages small business development throughout our community."
Business plan applications will be accepted now through July 8. Winners will be announced during the Gwinnett Chamber's Pinnacle Small Business Awards ceremony on October 18. Complete contest rules and details available at Amazing Entrepreneur Contest.
More information on Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development's small business and entrepreneurial efforts is available at Gwinentt Entrepreneur.
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