WIN

for your

BIG Idea

What's the purpose of this event, and why should I enter?

The event aims to give your business idea exposure and expert evaluation. It offers a unique networking opportunity with professionals and valuable educational experiences rarely found outside of normal networking circles.

Do I need a professionally done video?

No, the focus is on your idea, not the video's production quality. Feel free to use any available equipment, even a phone-shot and edited video is acceptable. Your submission video will not be shown at the Live Event in October.

How can I learn to upload videos on YouTube?

Refer to YouTube's helpful how-to guide here.

Is there an age limit for contestants?

Yes, you must be 10 or older, adhering to YouTube's age guidelines.

Can I enter without a complete business plan?

Absolutely! Your idea need does not need to be a fully developed business model, just a description of the product/service, its purpose, target customers, and how it will be available. In fact the finalists will sit down with a business coach and help define their business model and plan.

How will my video be judged?

A panel of local experts will evaluate and rank videos based on originality and creativity (50% of the score) and feasibility of success (remaining 50%). Top ideas proceed to the live finale event in October.

What happens if I become a finalist?

The top 7-10 ideas will be finalists, attending a coaching event at Mid-Plains Community College and promoting their ideas before the October finale. Finalists must attend the coaching & live event to be eligible to win. NEW in 2024: finalists will also be required to meet with a business coach one-on-one from the area to work through their business plan / model.

How are the final winners chosen?

During the finale, the top business idea creators will present to judges and the audience in a 5-minute Q&A session. The judges will choose the top 5 candidates. After the top 5 are announced, the public will vote and judges will vote. The combined vote will determine who wins 1st, 2nd and 3rd in both community and youth categories.

What's a voting ticket and who gets one?

Every attendee at the Big Idea North Platte Contest Event in October receives a voting ticket. They must hear all contestants before voting. Each person gets one vote to each category; community and youth.

Who attends the final event?

The top contestants must attend, and friends, family, and the community are encouraged to join. More support from family and friends increases a contestant's chances if they reach the Top 5.

How are prizes awarded?

The contest features both an adult and youth category, each with its own set of prizes.

Prizes are as follows;

For the adult category: First Place - $10,000; Second Place - $5,000; Third Place - $2,500.

For the youth category (for winners aged 18 or under) scholarships to Mid-Plains Community College will be awarded. First Place - $2,500 scholarship; Second Place - $1,500 scholarship; Third Place - $1,000 scholarship. Scholarships are redeemable at all MPCC campuses. Based on their age, contestants will be automatically placed into the appropriate category. Based on their age, contestants will be automatically placed into the appropriate category. Prize money will be awarded after the judging event, and winners must complete appropriate paperwork for payment, which may take up to 14 days to receive once processed by the North Platte Chamber and Development Payable Department.

Frequently Asked Questions