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The sixth annual �鶹ӰԺ State Business Concept Competition can help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their business ideas into cash. The competition is open to �鶹ӰԺ State undergraduate and graduate students of all majors with a great idea for a new app, product, clothing line or service. Applications are due Feb. 19 and can be found atwww.kent.edu/cebi/competitions.cfm. 

The competition is co-sponsored by �鶹ӰԺ State’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation and the Blackstone LaunchPad program at �鶹ӰԺ State. This is the first year the Blackstone LaunchPad program will co-sponsor the competition.

“This competition is a great way for students of all majors at �鶹ӰԺ State to pitch their new business ideas, receive feedback and possibly win seed funding to help launch that ides,” says Julie Messing, executive director of Entrepreneurship Initiatives at �鶹ӰԺ State.

Awards will be given for first, second and third place winners, receiving $1,500, $750 and $500, respectively.
Applicants can enter as individuals or teams, and teams are limited to one to five members. The application requires a two-minute concept pitch video. “Record your pitch” workshops will be held on Feb. 8 and Feb. 14 for applicants to borrow equipment to record and edit their video pitches. Visit www.kent.edu/cebi/competitions.cfm to register for the workshops.

Finalists will be announced Feb. 22. Each finalist will present a seven-minute live pitch presentation on Feb. 28.