New York StartUP! Business Plan Competition Orientation Session December 12, 2009

Competition Overview

The New York Public Library in conjunction with its sponsor, Citi Foundation, is proud to announce the 1st Annual New York StartUP! Business Plan Competition for New York-based startup entrepreneurs with cash prizes totaling over $28,000. The New York StartUp! Business Plan Competition gives aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to bolster their business acumen. Entrants gain practical insights about starting and growing a business, while learning about the comprehensive small business resources at NYPL’s Science, Industry and Business Library (“SIBL”).

Who Can Enter?
If you are 18 years of age or older, live in Manhattan, The Bronx, or Staten Island as a legal resident or US citizen, and wish to start a business in Manhattan, The Bronx, or Staten Island -- you are eligible. StartUP! is a competition to help New Yorkers who live in one of these three boroughs start a business based in one of these three boroughs.

How can I Enter the Competition?
All entrants must attend one (1) orientation session at SIBL located at 188 Madison Avenue at 34th St. The orientation will give you the full details about entering the StartUP! competition. Entry forms will be distributed at these orientation sessions and/or may be downloaded from this site. Additionally, you must have a New York Public Library card and attend three out of four training sessions, which also will be held at SIBL. Failure to do so will result in disqualification of your application.

Where do Orientation Sessions and Training take place?
Orientations start you off by giving you the basics of the competition and providing you with competition entry forms. One initial orientation at SIBL, 188 Madison Avenue at 34th St. is the first requirement. Subsequently, entrants must attend three out of four training sessions, also held at SIBL, 188 Madison Avenue at 34th St.

Entry Forms Due: New York Start Up! entry forms must be postmarked no later than midnight, December 18, 2009.

Official Website: http://smallbiz.nypl.org