Event Type : Students

What is the Edward K. Aldag Jr. Business Plan Competition?

Do you have the entrepreneurial spirit? Do you have a business idea ready to take the next step? Students at the University of Alabama can turn their business ideas into reality by winning up to $50,000, the Grand Prize in the Edward K. Aldag, Jr. Business Plan Competition.

The competition requires students to submit a powerpoint business plan, which can be reviewed by Alabama Entrepreneurship Institute (AEI) staff so revisions can be made before submitting a final version of the plan. On the day of the event, all teams compete in the morning (about six rooms with 6-7 competitors per room). One winner will be selected from each room to go on to the afternoon competitions. Even if a team does not move on to the second afternoon round, they may win an award based on their performance in the morning. In addition to prize money, winners may also receive space in the EDGE to start their business and receive mentoring from local entrepreneurs. The award ceremony occurs at the end of the day.

Registration for the competition will open soon, keep an eye on the AEI website for the link or you can complete this form to be contacted with more information.

Additional Prize Money and Workshops

Last year over 40 teams competed for over $100,000 in prizes. In addition to the Grand Prize, additional prizes ranging from $500 to $5,000 were awarded. This year, well over $100,000 worth of prizes will be awarded. To prepare for the competition, the EDGE is hosting events such as Startup Weekend to help develop ideas and pitch skills prior to the competition. Participation in these events is not required, but still highly encouraged.

Returning Community Competition

AEI in association with the Alabama Small Business Development Center, are also hosting a community business plan competition with a $5k first place prize, a $3k second place prize and a $2k third place prize. Community winners will also receive free membership at the EDGE and consulting from our partners. All community teams are welcomed and encouraged to attend workshops as well to help them prepare for the competition.

The Undergraduate Research & Creative Activity Conference is a premier annual event at The University of Alabama that provides undergraduates an opportunity to highlight their research or creative activity.

In addition to bringing attention to the excellent work of University students, the Conference allows students to gain experience presenting, compete for cash prizes and form relationships with their faculty mentors and fellow Conference presenters.

You can find more information and apply/submit your abstracts at  http://ovpred.ua.edu/urca/