Tips for Getting Started with Your TXBPC17 Application

This week we announced the first ever undergrad-focused Texas Business Plan Competition! The applications are live and open here until September 22. Applicants are asked to fill out an online application, which includes submitting a short pitch video, executive summary, and written business plan.

Fear not! We’re going to break down each component in an upcoming post to ensure you have all of the info you need in order to put together a stellar application.

What should you be doing now to get one step closer to that $15K in prizes?

To get started, create a profile or log in to Startup Compete, where the TXPBC application is hosted. You will need to designate one team member to create an account with an email you check regularly. Meet with your team and review all questions and deliverables associated with the application. Decide who can tackle each component and create a timeline so you’re on track for an early September submission. You can work on your application within the portal up to the deadline, but we recommend writing (and proofing) your answers in a word or google doc first so that you can copy/paste all of the correct information into the application when it’s submit time.

Communicate with your Faculty Advisor early on — chances are that once school starts, they (and you) will be busier with classes. Having a mentor to help guide you and even challenge you will help prepare you for tough in-person final rounds.

Remember that the judges are a mix of investors, entrepreneurs, and academic professionals. You’re entire application will be judged on these key criteria points:

1. Innovativeness: How novel is your core idea?
2. Achievability: How practical is the idea?
3. Scalability: Can the idea generate a sustainable and growing business?
4. Fundability: How clear are the benefits of funding for the idea?
5. Quality: Overall quality of the application.

How to Access the Application:

  1. Visit http://texasbusinessplancompetition2017.startupcompete.co/
  2. Create a profile or log in

Within the application, you’ll find links to templates that can help guide you as well as FAQs and Rules/Terms.

You can’t win if you don’t apply…

Herb Kelleher Center

Written by

The Herb Kelleher Center @UTAustin Developing new knowledge, successful entrepreneurs, and visionary innovation leaders.

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade