Title: R.I. biz plan contest prizes grow to $180K, (includes "green track") - Providence Business News

Industry sector: Other

R.I. biz plan contest prizes grow to $180K

By PBN Staff

PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Business Plan Competition will award more than $180,000 in prizes this year, an increase of nearly 40 percent from last year.

“It’s a tremendous testament to the generosity of our sponsors, and their commitment to building the next generation of entrepreneurs in Rhode Island, especially in an economy that is still trying to emerge from recession,” said Garrett B. Hunter, the competition’s co-chair.

The annual Business Plan Competition was established in 2000 to promote entrepreneurship in Rhode Island. Those who win the competition are required to grow their businesses in the Ocean State.

This year, with the support of the R.I. Economic Development Corporation, the contest has added a “green track” for any team or individual proposing an innovative business focused on environmental sustainability. A student track is also available for any undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in and attending an accredited college or university.

Contestants have until April 5 to submit their applications to the competition. The winners will be announced May 4 during the Business Expo 2010 at the R.I. Convention Center.

Read the full story at Providence Business News.