DSU business plan competition to expand

Dakota State University in Madison has invited area institutions to take part in its third annual business plan competition.  

The competition began in 2019 and has been open to DSU students and last year a high school division was added.  Dr. Michael Roach, DSU assistant professor of management and advisor of the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization Club, said that they expanded the college division this year to other two-year and four-year colleges and universities. 

Schools such as Augustana University, Dordt University, and South Dakota School of Mines have expressed interest in participating. Roach said that the expanded college division will increase the competition for DSU students, but the process will benefit all, because by putting together their business plan students will learn about virtually every aspect of business.

 Roach said if they are able, DSU will also host the first High School Entrepreneurs Day that will include pitches by the finalists in the business plan competition, campus tours, lunch, and talks from people in the area’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This year’s competition is sponsored by Heartland Consumers Power District, Lake Area Improvement Corporation, DSU’s Research and Economic Development Office, and the Paulson Cyber Incubator and Entrepreneurial Center.