Big Idea is a community’s local spin of Shark Tank. Ideas are submitted in advance, narrowed down to a group of finalists, and ideas are pitched LIVE in 2 MINUTES OR LESS in front of an audience and panel of judges. Top ideas will win access and discounts to key resources, business coaching and planning services, and startup money to launch their business!
Event Sponsors
“I had a big idea, and Big Idea Norfolk helped me turn it into a reality. Their support and guidance were invaluable, and I am now running a successful business thanks to their expertise.”
About
Get to know us
Our Company
At Big Idea Norfolk, we believe that every great business starts with a big idea. Whether you have a groundbreaking product, a unique service, or a solution to a pressing problem, we are here to help you turn your idea into a reality. Spearheaded by Invest Nebraska, our competition is designed to support and showcase the innovative business and product ideas emerging from our talented pool of students and the wider community. With our expertise and resources, we provide the necessary guidance, mentorship, and opportunities to transform your big idea into a successful venture. Join us on this exciting journey and let's bring your idea to life!
So what is Big Idea Norfolk?
There’s an idea. There’s a panel of “sharks”. There’s also an audience, access to resources, and money.
Big Idea is our version of Shark Tank. Ideas are submitted in advance, narrowed down to a group of finalists, and ideas are pitched LIVE in front of an audience and panel of judges. Pitches must be 2 minutes or less. Each pitch is followed by a Q&A.
Top ideas will win access and discounts to key resources, business coaching, planning services, and start up money to launch their business in Norfolk! Our panel of judges determines the top 5, and selects the top 3 pitches during the event. The audience will also choose a final winner for the People's Choice award resulting in 4 total winners!
The contest is open to students and Norfolk area community members. Participants under 19 years of age will require parental consent.
Prizes
The top 10 finalists, as determined by our panel of expert judges, will have the opportunity to present their ideas during a live pitch event on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at The Cove at Midtown Event Center in Norfolk. Cash prizes of $3,000, $1,000, and $500 will be awarded for first, second, and third places respectively to the live pitch winners. Additionally, a $500 prize will be awarded for “People’s Choice.” All finalists receive something including gift bags, access to professional services, and startup cash! Plus, the networking and connections received at this event are invaluable.
Event Sponsors
Event sponsors support Big Idea Norfolk and make pitch night possible. Thank you to these sponsors for elevating the event for Big Idea. Email Emma atemma@investnebraska.com to become an Event Sponsor.
Event Details 🕠 Time: 5:30 PM - Happy Hour | 6:00 PM - Pitches Begin 🏢Location - The Cove at Midtown Event Center 🏆 Top 3 ideas will win startup funding up to $3,000, and the audience will vote for the People’s Choice Award! 🍻 Heavy hors d'oeuvres provided, cash bar available
Professional Partners
Professional Partners are committing free or discounted services to the Top 5 finalists. These services can include, but are not limited to the following: business planning, legal, accounting, marketing, insurance, and branding & design. For paid services, we will limit professional partners to one business per industry. When you become a Professional Partner, you are offering free and discounted services to the Top 5 only, but we will recommend your services to all Big Idea Norfolk finalists. Email Emma atemma@investnebraska.com to become a Professional Partner.
Register to attend Big Idea Norfolk
FAQs
Are there any ineligible businesses?
If your business format matches or closely resembles any of the following descriptions, you will be ineligible to win the prizes:
Real estate sales or development
Franchise
Affiliate marketing
Multi-level marketing
Licensed dealership
Club affiliation requirement to conduct business
Does my business/idea have to be brand new?
Businesses that have been operational for 6+ years will be ineligible to win the prizes.
Can I just attend and not pitch?
Yes, we are hoping to get 100+ attendees at our inaugural event so please come support these entrepreneurs and bring your friends.
Submit an idea for Big Idea Norfolk
Idea submissions are open September 1 - September 30, 2024.
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