- UPS Store contest, in partnership with Inc. magazine, gives small businesses a chance to win up to $25,000
- Applicants will be judged on submissions telling how they have endured the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and how they will use the money if they win
- Prize winners also receive a feature article and a video shoot to be featured on UPS Store and Inc. social media
Summary by Dirk Langeveld
The UPS Store, in partnership with Inc. magazine, is now accepting applications for its third annual Small Biz Challenge.
Taking place this year as a virtual contest, the challenge invites small business owners to share how they have overcome challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic and how they will use their award money if they win. Five finalists will be chosen, with a grand prize of up to $25,000.
The contest is open to all adults in the United States who own a non-franchised independent business with 50 or fewer employees. Applications must be submitted by May 8.
A judging period will determine 10 semi-finalists by May 10, and a public voting period between June 7 and July 5 will narrow this pool down to five finalists. These finalists will compete at a virtual event during the week of July 26, taking part in games, elevator pitches, and other challenges before a celebrity judge who will determine the final rankings.
In addition to the grand prize, the contest will award a second place prize of up to $20,000, a third place prize of up to $15,000, and fourth and fifth place prizes of up to $5,000. The top three winners will also receive a feature article in Inc. magazine and a video shoot to promote their business on Inc. and UPS Store social media channels.
