ABERDEEN, S.D.(Press Release) The capacity to have a great idea knows no boundaries. High school students are invited to submit their best business ideas to the 2025 BIG Idea Competition, which is open from September 1 to October 31. Over $55,000 in cash and scholarships to be awarded this year.
The online application as well as various resources and examples can be accessed at the BIG Idea website: www.BIGIdeaSD.com. In addition to the overall competition awards, students can compete for four special awards for the best ideas in Wellness, Agriculture Innovation, Hometown Business, and Makers categories. BIG Idea will hold two final competitions: one for South Dakota finalists and a virtual one for out of state finalists.
“Understanding the basics of business is an important life skill, regardless of career path, which is important to our sponsors,” says BIG Idea Coordinator Kelly Weaver. “BIG Idea helps students interested in pursuing a business connect with resources and mentors to help further their entrepreneurial growth and business success.” Students and teachers alike testify to the value of the competition; over 60% of participants say they are more interested in starting a business after competing.
“Northern State University has been a partner of the BIG Idea Competition for many years, and we look forward to once again hosting the event on campus,” says Dacotah Bank Dean of the School of Business. “It is inspiring to observe the innovation and creativity demonstrated by these high school students. Their ideas portray an understanding of business principles such as strategic thinking, value creation, and problem-solving.”
Applications submitted by the October 31, 2025 deadline will be reviewed and ranked. The top scoring entries selected as finalists will make a verbal presentation to determine the winner. Finalists will receive cash awards of $100 to $1,000 along with college scholarships to Northern State University, Dakota State University and University of South Dakota. One winner will be chosen from among each of the special category entries. Prizes for these awards are $500 cash and $500 scholarship to Northern State.
The final competitions are set for December 9 (virtual) and December 10 (in person). All finalists and award winners will give an elevator pitch for their business idea at the Awards Ceremony at Northern State University. The Awards Ceremony is open to the public and will feature a keynote speaker who will share the stories of their own entrepreneurial journey.
Since inception in 2007, the BIG Idea Competition has received over 4,000 entries involving almost 5,600 students from 196 schools in 30 states. The competition is open to all high school students. The
winning entries in 2024 were Resto Rides, by Pack Forster of Howard (in state) and DIAL by Syon Aggarwal of Johnston (IA) High School (out of state). A complete listing of the 2024 finalists can be found on the BIG Idea website along with a video of their elevator pitches. Questions regarding the competitions can be directed to Kelly Weaver of the Small Business Development Center at (605) 698-7654 x 144 or [email protected].
The competition is organized BIG Idea, Inc. and the Small Business Development Center and supported by a broad based committee of economic development organizations, educational institutions, and private businesses. Primary sponsor Northern State University provides significant support including scholarship opportunities and hosting the Awards Ceremony. New sponsors for 2025 include the Knight Foundation of the SD Community Foundation, First Interstate Bank and ICAN Network. Returning sponsors include East River Electric, REED Fund, Dacotah Bank, First Bank and Trust, Plains Commerce Bank, Agtegra, South Dakota Retailers Association, South Dakota Agriculture Foundation, Blackout Industries. Missouri River Energy Services, Independent Health Solutions, Dakota Plains Commercial Real Estate, McQuillen Creative Group, Dakota State University, University of South Dakota, Aberdeen Development Corporation, Angelhaus, Northwestern Energy, 3M, Tom and Danielle Aman Foundation, GROW SD, and Midco.