By Karen Axelton
Could your startup be the winner of Startup Open? Part of 2011 Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) November 14-20, the Startup Open contest will recognize 50 startups from around the world that have high-growth potential.
Any entrepreneur who has a “startup moment” is eligible to enter and compete to be part of the “GEW 50.” A “startup moment” is defined as an action action related to launching a new business, such opening the doors for business; a first sale; or securing outside funding.
Entrants will have a chance to win the following:
- One winner will receive an all-expenses paid trip and VIP delegate credentials to participate in Liverpool’s Global Entrepreneurship Congress in March 2012. The Congress brings together entrepreneurs, investors, global leaders and startup champions from more than 100 countries. While there, the Startup Open winner will have the opportunity to showcase its business plan on a global scale, gain valuable insight from successful and experienced entrepreneurs, and network with world leaders, economists and other experts.
- Another winner will receive one year of mentoring from video rental company Redbox founding members and serial entrepreneurs Michael DeLazzer and Biju Kulathaka, courtesy of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization. The program will include a trip to DeLazzer’s home in Marco Island, FL, where the winner’s business plan will be scrutinized and market opportunities will be identified.
The “GEW 50” will be announced on Oct. 15, 2011, with those companies then competing for the top honors and prizes to be announced at the start of GEW 2011 on Nov. 14. Startup Open applicants will have until September 15, 2011, to submit their “startup moment.”
For more information on how to enter and to learn more about last year’s winners, visit www.startupopen.com.
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