2013 Competition Timeline and Events Calendar

Phase 1: 250-Word Idea Abstract
December 1, 2012 - January 31, 2013

The BPC Phase 1 Idea Abstract submission is due by 5 p.m. CST on January 31, 2013. Idea Abstracts are 250-word (MAXIMUM) business concepts.

Entries must fall into one of four categories: Advanced Manufacturing; Life Sciences; Information Technology or Business Services.

Phase 2: Executive Summary
February 22, 2013 – March 18, 2013

The top 50 Idea Abstract presenters, plus ties, submit a 1,000-word Executive Summary. The Phase 2 submission is due by March 18, 2013 at 5 p.m. CST.

The top 20 Executive Summaries, plus ties, are selected for the final round.

A business plan boot camp for Phase 2 participants will be held in early March.

Phase 3: Final written portion of the contest
April 8, 2013 – April 29, 2013

The top 20 Executive Summary finishers, plus ties, prepare final 15 to 20-page Business Plans for judging. The Phase 3 submission is due by April 29, 2013 at 5 p.m. CST.

Judges will review the plans and pick three place winners from each category who will advance to the final phase.

Final phase: "Diligent Dozen"

The "Diligent Dozen" will square-off with seven-minute presentations at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference to be held June 4-5, 2013 in Middleton. Live judging will help determine the Grand Prize winner.

* The end of each written phase is followed by about two weeks of judging.