Spark $100k Challenge

Fri Jul 15 2011 12:00:00 GMT+1200 (New Zealand Standard Time)

Spark $100k Challenge

Turning first class ideas into world class businesses.

Deadline: Monday 8 August, 12noon

Template: http://www.spark.auckland.ac.nz/challenges/resources

The Spark $100k Challenge is New Zealand’s premier business planning competition. With over $100,000 worth of prizes, mentoring and networks, the $100k Challenge provides the perfect start for students and staff from all disciplines at The University of Auckland to transform their ideas into a real business.

Stage I – 10-15 Qualifying teams selected for final stage of the $100k Challenge.
Stage II – Winners selected from the Qualifiers are announced at the $100k Challenge Grand Prize Giving.

First Prize: $25,000 Seed Capital and 6 months incubation at The ICEHOUSE.
Second Prize: $15,000 Seed Capital and 3 months incubation at The ICEHOUSE.
Third Prize: 3 months incubation at The ICEHOUSE.

Additional Discretionary Prizes:
Judges Choice: $5,000 Seed Capital.
UniServices Commercialisation Prize: $5,000

All qualifying teams receive a mentoring and development package valued at approximately $5,000.
All entrants receive feedback from leading New Zealand industry experts.

The Process:
1. Submit a concise venture summary (3-5 pages) by the deadline on 8 August.
2. 10-15 teams are selected at the Qualifiers Ceremony to participate in Launch Pad. Winning a place in the Launch Pad programme consists of intensive training, mentoring and workshops over the course of 7 weeks.
3. The qualifying teams develop a business plan during Launch Pad and then present the plan at a ‘Dragons’ Den’ style pitching session.
4. The first, second and third prize winners are announced at the $100k Challenge Grand Prize Giving on 19 October.

Visit www.spark.auckland.ac.nz