Steamboat community business plan competition launches for 2021
Cash prizes for top winners; plan submission deadline is Sept. 30
Are you ready to start a new business? The Yampa Valley Entrepreneurship Center at Colorado Mountain College Steamboat Springs is accepting submissions for its ninth annual community business plan competition. The program promotes effective planning for new business startups. With a well-written plan, entrepreneurs have improved chances of finding funding, recruiting talented employees and addressing the needs of customers.
Nearly 100 entrepreneurs have participated in this competition since 2012. Cash prizes are awarded to the top two scoring plans. Winners are chosen based upon a written plan, a presentation and the financial viability of the business. This year, first place will receive $6,000 and second place will receive $4,000.
All types of businesses have participated and won in previous years including a day care facility, software development company, bamboo ski pole company and a marketing services business, among others. The deadline for plan submissions is Sept. 30, 2021.
The event sponsor, Startup Colorado, is a leader statewide in promoting and supporting rural startups and small business. Prize sponsors include the city of Steamboat Springs, Routt County, Alpine Bank, Yampa Valley Bank, Mountain Valley Bank, THPK, You Rock and the Economic Development Council of the Steamboat Springs Chamber of Commerce. The competition is funded entirely through donations.
To submit an entry or review the rules and judging criteria, visit our information page or call 970-870-4491.
Free business plan workshops will be offered on June 17, July 15 and Aug. 6 from 6-7:15 p.m. Routt County COVID-19 protocols will determine if these are in-person at CMC Steamboat Springs or virtual. Individuals may also request one-on-one counseling in support of their business plan efforts through Yampa Valley SCORE. Call 970-870-4491 to register for the workshop or to schedule a one-on-one business counseling session.
