Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2013

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New and start-up businesses can enter to win up to $25,000

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The John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition is accepting entries for the 2013 competition. New and start-up businesses (in business for less than 4 years) are eligible to enter the competition for the chance to win up to $25,000. 

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The deadline to enter is April 30. Applicants are required to submit business plan information via a secure online program called Gust. A link to the Gust submission page is available at the competition website, www.IowaBusinessPlanCompetition.com. 

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The John Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition is designed to stimulate business development and provide support for outstanding business plans. This year a total of $50,000 will be awarded to the top three submitted business plans ($25,000 for first prize, $15,000 for second and $10,000 for third). Honorable mention and $1,000 will be awarded to additional companies.

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Assistance with business plan entries is available at the Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers located at Drake University, Iowa State University, North Iowa Area Community College, the University of Iowa and the University of Northern Iowa; the Small Business Development Centers throughout the state; and the business accelerators in Ames, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Dubuque, Iowa City, Red Oak and Mason City.

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The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers provide entrepreneurial education and business support, partnering with agencies like the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), Entrepreneurial Development Centers (EDCs) and local entrepreneurs to assist with funding and other business needs.

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Rules, eligibility, timelines and assistance information are available at the competition website, www.IowaBusinessPlanCompetition.com.

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