Originality

Entries must be the original work of entrants and may be entered by an individual or a team. Individuals or teams may submit as many original ideas as they wish.  There is no limit to the number of ideas submitted as long as each idea is both original and unique.

Confidentiality & Security

The Governor's Business Plan Contest organizers take the issue of entry confidentiality very seriously, and take great steps to protect participants intellectual property. A confidentiality agreement is required at the time of registration that details measures taken to protect your ideas. See Confidentiality Agreement. 

• Hard copies of entries will not be viewed or distributed to anyone unless necessary as part of the judging process, and we take special precautions to protect electronic files as well.
• While we do not require judges to sign non-disclosure agreements, these people regularly handle confidential material in the course of their business and understand the need to preserve confidentiality of your ideas. We do request that they respect the participants' rights as a condition of their participation, but the Organizing Committee will not arbitrate any disputes over judges' handling of entries. You are free to exclude any material you feel is truly proprietary and at risk of disclosure. Intra-team confidentiality is the sole responsibility of team members, and we will not arbitrate any disputes that arise during the competition.
• Individuals or teams advancing to Phase 2 and 3 will be required to submit a brief statement of their idea to be used for public relations purposes. This may be as general or specific as a team desires, but it should be considered public knowledge and will be a required part of participating in these Phases.
• BPC holds the privacy and security of our site visitors and participants in the highest regard. Your contact information is only used to send information that you requested.   Occasionally, we may also use email to notify you of special offers that we think you might find valuable.