BROOKINGS – The 11th annual Brookings Area Idea Competition is now open and seeking ideas from community members, SDSU and high school students.
The 2018 competition, hosted by Brookings Economic Development Corporation, encourages inventors, makers, innovators and entrepreneurs to submit entries with the winning idea receiving up to $1,500.
With minimal requirements, it’s easy to participate, organizers say. Submit a one-page description including product or business name, description, the problem the product solves, market description and stage of development.
Finalists will be asked to give a five-minute pitch of their idea to a panel of judges Feb. 21. The deadline for submissions is Feb. 13.
Ideas should be submitted to jennifer@brookingsedc.com or delivered to Brookings Economic Development Corporation at 2301 Research Park Way, Suite 113, Brookings. Entries will be placed in either the general business or science/technology categories, and a total of $2,500 in prize money will be awarded with receipt of money subject to winners reaching business milestones.
“Anyone who has a business or product idea is encouraged to enter the competition,” said Jennifer Quail, BEDC’s director of entrepreneur support. “In addition to promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the community, this competition provides participants with the opportunity to take their ideas to the next level of development.”
Questions about the Idea Competition may be directed to Quail at jennifer@brookingsedc.com or 697-8103.
BEDC’s Division of Entrepreneur Support provides networking opportunities, education and resources to area entrepreneurs and small businesses. The program works with service providers, volunteers, and emerging and small businesses to create a cohesive support system for the entrepreneurial community.
