The Emporia Entrepreneur Challenge is a venture idea competition that is open to students from all schools at Emporia State University.

The framework for the Challenge begins with participants, either individuals or teams of up to five members, submitting a 3-page (maximum) executive summary and registration form to the competition each spring. Through submission of the executive summary, teams will attempt to refine their venture with the intention of advancing to subsequent rounds of the competition. More details can be found under the “Guidelines” section below.

A panel of graders will select the semifinalist teams to advance in the pitch competition. During the semifinal round, students will have several weeks to redefine their big ideas (based on graders' feedback) and students will work with faculty and local entrepreneurs to further develop their concepts.

The semifinalist teams will submit a pitch virtually. More details can be found under the “Guidelines” section below. A panel of judges will select the finalists.

The semifinalist teams will present their business concepts to the community and judges at a community showcase. During this showcase, the top three teams will be chosen.

STUDENT QUALIFICATIONS

The Emporia Entrepreneur Challenge is open to all full-time and part-time undergraduate and graduate students at Emporia State University. Students from all majors and backgrounds are encouraged to participate. Non-students may advise the team; however, only students may present the plan to the judges during the competition. The concept and venture must demonstrate student management and ownership.

TEAM QUALIFICATIONS

Individuals may submit a concept. However, entrepreneurship teams are encouraged. Student teams should not exceed five students.

CONCEPT QUALIFICATIONS

The Emporia Entrepreneur Challenge welcomes independent student ventures in the concept stage or seed stage. Generally excluded from entry are the following: buy-outs, expansions of existing companies, real estate syndication, tax shelters, franchises, and licensing agreements for distribution in the local market. Plagiarism of patents or copyrights will result in disqualification.

LIMIT ON IDEAS

Teams or individuals may submit up to two different business concept ideas. However, only one concept per person/group may qualify for the semifinal round.