New deadline for business plan competition

New deadline for business plan competition


GARDNER — The deadline for the 2014 Business Plan Competition, put on by the Mount Wachusett Community College Center for Entrepreneurship, has been extended to Dec. 31.

"The competition gives the region's innovators in the business and nonprofit sectors the opportunity to submit business plans and vie for cash and in-kind prizes. Five finalists and a single grand-prize winner will be selected," according to a press release.

Business plans from individuals and teams will be accepted through an extended deadline of midnight, Wednesday, Dec. 31. Five finalists will be selected and invited to participate at an awards dinner in January. During the awards dinner, all five finalists will present to a panel of judges. Each applicant will provide a 90-second business plan pitch, followed by a 10-minute presentation.

Qualified entrants are encouraged to start or grow a business or nonprofit organization within the college's service area, which includes Ashburnham, Ayer, Ashby, Athol, Barre, Clinton, Fitchburg, Gardner, Groton, Hardwick, Harvard, Hubbardston, Lancaster, Leominster, Lunenburg, Oakham, Orange, Pepperell, Petersham, Phillipston, Princeton, Royalston, Rutland, Shirley, Sterling, Townsend, Templeton, Westminster and Winchendon.

The prize package provides more than $5,000 in cash awards, advertising and consulting opportunities, including a cash award; $1,000 in print and digital advertising; a free three-credit academic course at MWCC valued at $600; a free noncredit class at MWCC valued up to $150; a full-page profile or advertisement in upcoming MWCC publications; graphic design services from a professional graphic designer; a free consultation with a marketing vice president; a free one-hour consultation with an attorney; and, 2,000 free business cards.