ABERDEEN, S.D.(HubCityRadio)- 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.

BIG Idea Coordinator and SBDC Regional Director Kelly Weaver describe the program came about in 2007.

Weaver talks about how the program expanded state wide.

Weaver talks about how this became a nationwide event.

Weaver go over the procedure to apply for the competition.

Weaver also discuss another requirement is the elevator pitch and there will be a new qualifying round before those items are judged by a panel.

Weaver believes this is a great opportunity for those who would like to learn how to get involve in the business industry.

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 on December 10th and a virtual one for out of state finalists on December 9th.