Mandy Rennehan of Freshco, a judge of the Challenge Contest.
Ready to throw your hat into the ring? Following these tips from Challenge Contest judges and a former grand-prize winner could boost your chances of winning.
Talk hard results: Diana Goodwin, founder of AquaMobile Inc., which won last year's Challenge Contest, says it's important to be clear about how you intend to use the $100,000 prize money and what results this investment will yield.
Show off your personality: While numbers and business plans are important, people and personality are what will win the judges over, says Mandy Rennehan, a Challenge Contest judge and chief executive officer of Freshco in Oakville, Ont. "Be authentic and let your true self shine through," she says.
Highlight your value: Paint a clear picture of how your business makes money and why you're a strong contender in your market, says Craig Thornton, vice-president of business mobility solutions at Telus. "Provide some numbers to demonstrate that you're a viable business that's poised for growth," he says.
Make every sentence count: Take the time to write and refine your submission, says Ms. Goodwin. "You're working with a word limit, so be sure that every word, every point you're including is adding value," she says. "So don't rush it because a well-thought-out plan can set you apart."
To enter the 2016 Small Business Challenge Contest, click here.