The Dream Big Grow Here small business grant contest started in 2010 in Iowa and was so successful that it continues to be an annual event. The contest is hosted by Des Moines Area Community College Business Resources and gives Iowa small business owners a chance to win a $5,000 business grant.
Residents in the community can vote once a day on Facebook for their favorite local small business. The business who receives the most votes wins the $5,000 business grant. In addition, they can compete at the state level for an additional $10,000.
The contest runs throughout several regional areas of Iowa. Small businesses can enter the contest in their area. Each region has different deadlines and entry requirements. Voters likewise vote on businesses within their area. Winners of regional contests then go on to compete for the grand prize of $10,000 at the state level.
Local area development commissions as well as businesses, colleges, banks and other local organizations can host a contest in their region. Small businesses entering the contest must be for-profit. The eligible size of the business and location is determined by the rules of each regional contest. The top five businesses receiving the most votes in their region have an opportunity to pitch their business to a panel of judges to win the $5,000 grant.
The idea of the contest is to support entrepreneurs in the state of Iowa and help small business owners stay in Iowa and continue to grow and succeed.
For more information, visit www.dreambiggrowhere.com.