Fort Lewis College is planning its own version of “Shark Tank,” the TV show that gives entrepreneurs a chance to win investment in their startup.
While this is not the college’s first business-plan competition, for the first time as part of the Hawk Tank Business Plan Competition the college is welcoming nonstudents to team up with Fort Lewis students and alumni.
“The Hawk Tank is more than an education exercise, we look at this as something that can be a real boon to the Durango business community,” said Mitch Davis, a spokesman for the college.
During January, February and March, workshops with business experts will be offered for participants. In addition, a mentor from the Durango business community will be paired with teams who would like guidance.
“We are going to give you the mechanisms to be successful. Even if you don’t win, you’ve just taken your idea to the next level,” Michael Valdez, an associate professor in the School of Business Administration, said in a news release.
At least one current student or FLC alumni who graduated after spring 2010 must lead each team. Teams of up to five people may enter, and individuals are also eligible.
The deadline to sign up is Jan. 25.
Business plans are due March 24. The competition will start March 30, and the winner will be selected April 9. The plans will be judged by a panel of entrepreneurs, business leaders and investors.
First place will win $5,000. Second place takes home $2,500, and third place will earn $1,000.
Visit www.fortlewis.edu/businessplan to enter or sponsor the competition.
mshinn@durangoherald.com
