Enter a Competition

Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition

Held annually since 2006, the Pappajohn Iowa Business Plan Competition has encouraged entrepreneurial activity across the state of Iowa. The competition is open to any Iowan. The first-place prize is $25,000 and total prizes exceed $50,000. The program is sponsored by John Pappajohn, Equity Dynamics, the five John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Centers around the state, and the Iowa Department of Economic Development. For more information, visit www.iowabusinessplancompetition.com.

Faculty/Staff/Graduate Student Elevator Pitch Competition

The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) and the University of Iowa Research Foundation (UIRF) sponsor the Elevator Pitch Competition for University of Iowa faculty members, staff members, and graduate students. The competition allows for early-stage entrepreneurs to compete for start-up capital for their business idea.

New Venture Challenge

The purpose of the New Venture Challenge is to encourage new, original ideas or start-up business opportunities. The contest permits ALL University of Iowa Faculty, Staff, & Students, as well as start-up companies whose principal address is at the UI Research Park to take their first steps toward turing an idea or opportunity into a viable business. The spirit of the contest is that it is both an educational experience and a potential launch pad for those who wish to start a business or are currently in the process of starting a business. Congratulations to our 2010 New Venture Challenge Winners!

Competitions for UI Students

During the year, JPEC and its partners offer several opportunities for students to raise money to start or grow their business while in college. Annually, JPEC awards more than $60,000 in cash prizes through its business plan ad elevator pitch competitions. JPEC's goal is to help foster and grow the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. Watch the JPEC homepage for dates and program details about these competitions.