The 2013 RED Challenge is underway and innovative applications keep rolling in; local entrepreneurs are submitting their business ideas with a technology, science or knowledge-based focus.
The winner of the Red Challenge will gain funding, office space and mentorship to jumpstart their unique business idea.
“We are very happy with the quality of submissions we are receiving this year so far. These young entrepreneurs in Central Alberta have some great ideas. We are excited that they are taking the opportunity the RED Challenge offers to develop their business plans further,” said Alicia Cafferata, RED Challenge coordinator/project coordinator for Red Deer College in the Applied Research and Innovation department. “It is evident that 2013 is going to be a great year for the contest.”
Toby Williams, director of entrepreneurship and international development at Olds College, is also looking forward to watching the program develop. “As the newest partner of the RED Challenge, we are proud to be able to support a program that encourages our students to engage in the business community. We have seen lots of interest so far, and are looking forward to watching the contest progress.”
The contest is still open, and applicants are encouraged to submit their ideas before the deadline at 4 p.m. on Oct. 11th. Students of all ages who are currently enrolled in post-secondary education, or who are no more than one year postgraduate, are invited to submit a brief description of their innovative business idea through the RED Challenge web site at www.REDchallenge.ca.
Top business plans will be selected as finalists and given the opportunity to present their idea to a panel of local business leaders, in a Dragon’s Den inspired format.
The RED Challenge judges will then choose a winner to receive the $20,000 prize to jumpstart their innovative business, as well as personal business mentorship and office space for a year.
The 2013 RED Challenge is brought to you by Red Deer College, the City of Red Deer, Red Deer RED, Alberta Innovations and Olds College
To learn more about the RED Challenge or to submit a business idea visit www.REDchallenge.ca. The web site also contains videos from mentors and former winners, timelines and full contest details.
– Fawcett
