Welcome to the fourth year of the BIG Idea Competition. High school students can compete for cash and scholarships by submitting a 1,075-word description of their business idea. Returning again this year is the Marketing Design competition where students can choose to also create a logo and ad for their idea. This competition for high school students in Aberdeen and the surrounding region was created through the collaborative efforts of many organizations and is funded by Absolutely!Aberdeen. This website will provide resources to assist you with your idea development and will be the place where you submit your application.

This competition is about exposing youth to new ideas and innovation in the hopes that you will view entrepreneurship as an option for your future. Rather than leaving the region to look for a job, you can have the confidence to create your own opportunities close to home and know that there is support for you should you choose to do so. Homegrown businesses are key to the success of our rural communities.

Cash prizes, a chance to meet other students interested in entrepreneurship, recognition and awards are just some of the features of this competition. The first place winner will receive $1,000, second place wins $500 and $250 for third place. College scholarships will also be awarded. A $500 prize is awarded to the winner of the marketing design competition.

Completed on-line business ideas are due by October 31st, 2010. Students selected as finalists will be invited to present their ideas to entrepreneurs and the awards ceremony will take place that same day. The final competition will be held the first week of December, 2010.
  • Learn about business development and planning
  • Meet with other students and future business mentors
  • Be a part of the cutting edge - future young entrepreneurs
  • Be recognized for your business smarts
  • Attend a wrap-up event with other participants
  • Win great prizes
  • Specially developed resources to enhance entrepreneurship or business studies
  • Recognition for your school team's efforts
  • A networking and learning opportunity for like-minded educational professionals
  • A chance to help area youth explore their options!