Business Plan Forums

The “first look” aspect means none had presented previously to investors or venture capital groups.

“The business plans in the final round reflect some of Wisconsin’s core technology strengths, as well as the fact that entrepreneurs can be found in all corners of the state,” said Mark Bugher, chairman of the Tech Council.

“The purpose of the ‘Concept to Company’ contests is to stimulate our local economy and create new jobs."

"The only way to get rich off entrepreneurs is
picking winners, investing in them and helping them grow their business by
continually adding value."

The mission of the contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the creation, start-up and early-growth stages of high-tech businesses in Wisconsin.

Since its inception in 2004, more than 1,500 entries have been received and $1 million in cash and in-kind prizes has been awarded. A record 326 entries were received in 2009.

Five teams from Idaho are among the 56 entrants in the first-ever Pacific Northwest regional Clean Tech Open, where ideas for viable clean tech businesses will vie for $150,000 in cash and professional services.

The Hartland-based company won $50,000 in cash and services for capturing the grand prize in the sixth annual contest.

“For the past four years, DFJ has held only regional competitions. We are excited to partner with Cisco and expand this opportunity globally to include regions covered by our DFJ Global Network,” said Tim Draper, managing director, DFJ.

The conference is designed to give fledgling entrepreneurs the strategies and tools they need to be successful, says Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council http://www.wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/ , which organizes the business plan contest.

Enter the Clean Tech Open – Turn your ideas into $100,000