Ohio Wesleyan University is set to launch its U.S. Entrepreneurship Competition on July 1, offering nearly $500,000 in prizes to aspiring entrepreneurs. This competition is open to individuals of all ages and from any location, making it the largest business plan competition in Ohio. The competition includes both student and professional tracks, with cash investments and access to resources for the winners.
The Delaware Entrepreneurial Center at OWU, a collaboration between the university, City of Delaware, and Delaware County, is hosting the competition. Phil Smith, the director of the center, highlighted the university’s long history of entrepreneurial spirit and expressed excitement about helping others build their own business legacies. Winners of the competition will receive expert advice and support to launch successful companies.
To participate in the U.S. Entrepreneurship Competition, interested individuals must apply before September 1. Up to 10 teams will be selected to compete in a live event on September 26 at the OWU campus in Delaware, Ohio. The judges will announce the winners on the same day, with final placements revealed during an Ohio Wesleyan Homecoming and Family Weekend celebration on October 5.
The competition criteria include submitting detailed business plans, media materials, and answering specific questions about the startup. During the live competition, semifinalists will present their pitches to expert judges and answer questions to demonstrate the viability of their business plans. Winners will receive prize packages valued at $100,000, $75,000, and $50,000, with additional awards for fourth and fifth place finishers.
The Delaware Entrepreneurial Center at OWU, established in 2018, serves as a liberal arts business accelerator and a unique partnership between the university, city, county, and educational institutions. The center offers various benefits, including connecting members with student-interns for assistance with different business needs. Students gain hands-on experience while supporting entrepreneurs in fulfilling their goals.
For more information about the U.S. Entrepreneurship Competition and the Delaware Entrepreneurial Center at OWU, interested individuals can visit the university’s website. Ohio Wesleyan University, founded in 1842, is known for its premier liberal arts education and commitment to providing students with diverse academic experiences. Through the OWU Connection program, students engage in real-world learning opportunities to prepare for future success.
In conclusion, the U.S. Entrepreneurship Competition at Ohio Wesleyan University presents a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas and receive valuable support to launch successful ventures. With a substantial prize package and access to resources, participants have the chance to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
