Graves Business Plan Competition Now Accepting Fall Applications

Competition now running twice annually, open to undergrad and master’s students

Student financial advisor roles available

In an effort to expand opportunities for aspiring student entrepreneurs, the Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation in the Haslam College of Business is accepting fall applications for the Graves Business Plan Competition. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, students with a business idea or early-stage startup are invited to apply by Oct. 21.

Held annually since 2007, this year the pitch competition will be held during both the fall and spring semesters. In addition to the schedule change, graduate students also may now apply. UT students enrolled in undergraduate and master’s degree programs are eligible.

“The competition was created to help students advance business ideas and early-stage startups,” said Tom Graves, Anderson Center director of operations and director of the competition. “The addition of a fall competition gives students the opportunity to engage earlier with the Anderson Center and take advantage of mentorship and other learning experiences designed to help grow businesses.”

First, second and third prizes of $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively are awarded in both growth and lifestyle business categories. All student-owned companies, whether legally formed or in the planning stages, are eligible to compete.

Applications for the Graves Business Plan Competition are due by October 21 at 11:59 p.m. Students must complete the application form to apply. Applicants advancing to the first presentation round will pitch to a panel of business professionals and alumni entrepreneurs on Friday, November 8.

Competition Also Accepting Student Financial Advisor Applications

Students majoring in finance and accounting, who are not applying to compete with a business idea or early-stage startup, are eligible to apply for student financial advisor roles. These students will have the opportunity to consult and advise an early-stage student startup in the financial portions of their presentations.

Student financial advisor prizes of up to $300 are awarded to advisors whose teams win first, second and third in both the growth and lifestyle categories.

Interested finance and accounting students should apply using the student financial advisor application form.

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CONTACT:

Carrie McCamey (865-974-9964, [email protected])