Technology PEI Inc. has unveiled plans for a fourth annual St@rt Up Challenge, a business plan competition in the Information Technology (IT) and New Media sectors.
The competition features two categories, (1) Student and (2) Entrepreneur, New or Existing Business, and is open to all residents of Prince Edward Island. The intent of the e-business plan competition is to encourage Islanders to examine the economic opportunities with today's information technologies and to develop new business ideas.
Participants must submit a summary of their business ideas, which will be reviewed by a panel of judges. Finalists are matched with an industry mentor to assist with the development of a more detailed business plan and preparation for a final pitch to the judging panel.
A variety of prizes donated by the local business and education communities are available, including cash, computer equipment and services and professional business services. The winner of the New or Existing Business category may also receive up to six months tenancy in Technology PEI Inc.'s Incubator Program at Atlantic Technology Centre.
The Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology, says the program is an excellent way to encourage our students and businesses to explore IT and New Media possibilities. "It is encouraging each year to see the creative and innovative ideas that are submitted by our students and business community," said the Minister. "This program gives participants an opportunity to develop a business idea and plan and to get advice and feedback from business leaders."
Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to visit the St@rt Up Challenge 2003 Web site at www.techpei.com for a listing of the complete rules, business planning resources and other key information.
The application deadline is April 14. The winners will be announced during IT Week in May.
Support for the competition is provided by Technology PEI Inc., the Government of Prince Edward Island's lead agency in the development, adoption and use of information technologies in business and community.