$50,000 Contest to Help Female Entrepreneur Start a “Dream” Business

Posted July 19, 2007 by Margie Zable Fisher

Saw this interesting posting on a contest giving money to a woman starting a business. I have some thoughts on it, which I’ll share after I share the posting from: http://www.youngmoney.com/blog/

Many young entrepreneurs dream about owning their own business but they fail to try because of a lack of financial resources or know-how. A new contest sponsored by Mirassou Winery gives new hope for budding women entrepreneurs.

The winery recently launched the “Make Your Dreams Come True with Mirassou” contest that will award $50,000 plus a team of professional business consultants to one aspiring female entrepreneur. The team includes a business and marketing plan writer, graphic designer, financial planner, legal expert, as well as an experienced entrepreneur from the National Association of Women Business Owners who will mentor the winner.

You can visit www.mirassou.com to apply online. The contest closes on December 15, 2007. Each applicant must be a U.S. resident, at least 21 years of age and not a current business owner. Good luck, ladies!

Here’s the link to the contest page: http://www.mirassou.com/women_in_business/index.asp

Public Relations thoughts: I was trying to figure out why a wine company was sponsoring this contest. As I read the background of the winery, including the woman who helped steer the company to where it is today, I was totally impressed. There’s also a tie-in to wine with wine business etiquette. This is extremely creative and smart.

It’s not that easy for a wine company to come up with a broad business angle. Especially one that ties in NAWBO for extra exposure, and a contest, which is a favorite of mine for getting publicity.

Well done, Mirassou!