Northeast Iowa Business Network kicking off the second "Dream Big, Grow Here" contest

The Northeast Iowa Business Network has partnered with the University of Northern Iowa to offer an online contest worth $15,000 to regional entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Beginning Monday, September 3rd, contestants can win cash and gain widespread statewide publicity by competing in one of multiple online contests, followed by a statewide Pitch-Off event during the annual EntreFest! Conference next spring.

In its second year, the contest, called Dream Big Grow Here, offers entrepreneurs an opportunity to upload their business start-up and/or expansion idea online at www.DreamBigGrowHere.com then encourage customers, friends, family and community members to vote for them.  The winner of each regional contest receives a $5,000 cash award and a chance to compete for $10,000 in a live, pitch-off during the statewide EntreFest! conference.
 
Ten regional contests are planned for 2012, including the Dream Big Grow Here in Northeast Iowa contest, which also begins September 3rd.  To participate, entrepreneurs are encouraged to visit the website to determine their eligibility, and then upload a video, PowerPoint or photographs outlining their plans.

Voting will be held between October 1st and October 19th.  A pitch-off will be announced at a later date.

For more information on the Dream Big Grow Here competition and for complete rules, go to www.DreamBig GrowHere.com or contact Winneshiek County Development Director Randy Uhl at (563) 382-6061 or wcdi@thinkdecorah.com or Courtney Schwitzer at courtney.schwitzer@uni.edu or 319-273-4328.