2009 John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition

This contest is designed to stimulate entrepreneurial activity and greater awareness of the resources available to grow entrepreneurs in Iowa. All winners will be selected on an objective basis as determined by the criteria. You must read and comply with the rules [PDF: 125k] to enter the Iowa Business Plan Competition (the "Competition"). This competition is void where prohibited by law.

What can I win?

The winners will be determined from all eligible entrants. The winners will be presented with awards at the Iowa Venture Capital and Entrepreneur Conference to be held Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at HyVee Hall in Des Moines. Winners must be present to accept awards. All finalists will be expected to participate in or attend the Iowa Venture Capital and Entrepreneur Conference and will be expected to make a brief presentation about their companies during the conference. The maximum award distribution for the Grand, Second, and Third prizes shall not exceed $50,000. Additional prizes may be awarded to other entrants. Other entrants must be present to accept these awards.

ONE (1) $25,000 Grand Prize. One Grand Prize Winner will receive $25,000 and, in addition, recognition of your work on the Web site for the competition.
ONE (1) $15,000 Second Prize.
ONE (1) $10,000 Third Prize.

When can I enter?

Between March 2 and May 1, 2009.

How do I enter?

An executive summary of six pages or less (containing, but not limited to business idea, product/service, market, management, sales, and finances) is to be submitted electronically in PDF or Word format to spitzmar@niacc.edu between March 2 and May 1, 2009. The Executive Summary should contain a cover page with the business name, main contact person's name, business address, e-mail and telephone number. A copy of the Entry Form and Publicity & Liability Release is to accompany the Executive Summary.

The judges will review the executive summaries and invite those selected to enter the competition to submit a business plan by June 30, 2009. Those selected to enter the competition will be notified of their acceptance between May 2 and May 15, 2009.

A complete business plan and the entry/publicity release (again) in electronic form may be submitted by June 30, 2009 to: spitzmar@niacc.edu

John Pappajohn Centers