Below is an outline of the timeline of events for the 2011 competition.
All Economic Fuel Events are Free and Open to the Public
Fall 2010
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Information Sessions - Check back in early September for dates
Multiple information sessions will be offered at various locations including Humboldt State University, College of the Redwoods, and the North Coast Small Business Development Center. Interested persons are encouraged to attend one information session. Each session will cover the same basic information regarding eligiblity criteria, rules and entry guidelines, available resources, etc...
Official Launch and Entrepreneur's Mixer
Our Official Launch and Entrepreneur's Mixer will feature 2010 winners talking about why it's great to be a college entrepreneur. You'll also have the opportunity to mix and mingle with our competition advisors after the forum.
Fire in the Belly
An Evening of Stories from Redwood Coast Entrepreneurs
www.fromthefire.org
At FIRE IN THE BELLY events, local business leaders tell stories of passion, persistence, and pure dumb luck.
Spring 2011
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Registration Deadline
Teams interested in participating in Economic Fuel must submit an official Registration Packet in early 2011 as an intent to compete.
Educational Workshops and Forums
Economic Fuel will offer educational workshops and forums throughout the Spring for competitors and community members. Previous educational events have covered financials, marketing, venture capital, economic impact, and business loans.
Business Plan Deadline
Business plans are typically due in late March. The Elevator Pitch Presentations follow within a week.
Elevator Pitch Practice Session
Teams have the opportunity to practice their elevator pitches with local Toastmasters who provide advice and feedback.
Elevator Pitch Presentations & Showcase Exhibits
Competitors have two minutes to pitch their business idea in the first judged round of Economic Fuel. Teams also have the opportunity to display a showcase exhibit on the night of the pitches.
Finalist Presentations
Finalists will give a formal presentation followed by a question and answer session with the panel of judges.
Awards Ceremony
This is the culmination of the 2011 competition with $117,000 awarded to the winning teams.