Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition

Ever had a business idea that you thought could change the world? Or at least make you a decent chunk of change? Well, if you're a student at the University of Florida, you're in luck. The UF Warrington College of Business has rolled out the red carpet for budding entrepreneurs with its Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition.

This isn't just some run-of-the-mill college competition. Oh no. This is a four-month-long extravaganza where teams of students get to flex their entrepreneurial muscles. From creating growth-oriented business models to drafting full-blown business plans, this competition has it all. And the cherry on top? The top 4 teams get to duke it out for a whopping $40,000 in prizes. That's right. 40 grand.

Well, there isn't one, really. As long as you're enrolled at any college or school at UF, you're good to go. You can enter solo or form a team. And don't sweat it if you don't have a business plan ready. The competition provides ample resources, including a business plan lab, mentoring sessions, and even special sessions with partnering accounting and law firms.

Kick things off by submitting your intent to compete by December 15. Once that's out of the way, you'll have until April 10th to get your complete business plan in order. If you make the cut, you'll present your plan to a panel of investors on April 25th. The top four teams then get one more shot at glory with a final presentation on April 26th.

Now, let's talk moolah. The first-place team walks away with a cool $25,000. Second place nabs $10,000, third place gets $5,000, and fourth place receives $1,000. But wait, there's more! There are special prizes up for grabs too:

• Best use of Artificial Intelligence: $5,000
• Best use of Blockchain: $5,000
• Best Social Impact/Sustainability: $1,000

The Big Idea Gator Business Plan Competition is more than just a contest. It's an opportunity. An opportunity to learn, to grow, and to turn your big idea into an even bigger reality. So, if you've got the entrepreneurial itch, this is your shot. Dive in, give it your all, and who knows? You might just walk away with more than just a prize. You might walk away with the start of a successful business.