Helpful Tips
Useful Resources for Students
The following links and publications may be helpful in developing your BIG Idea Business idea.
Student Checklist
BIG Idea Entry Form Layout
Sample Project
How To Videos: below are videos that will help explain the competition as a whole and will break down certain sections into detail for you. Also included are videos on tips to make your business idea a successful one and what is required for the Elevator Pitch Video!
Elevator Pitch
- Sample Elevator Pitches from Past BIG Idea Competitors
- General Elevator Pitch Information
- What Is An Elevator Pitch (article)
- What Is an Elevator Pitch
- How to Create the Perfect Elevator Pitch with Examples
- Sample Elevator Pitches from South Dakota’s Giant Vision Competition:
Industry/Demographics
Starting the Business
- Tips to Create Your Business Idea
- Guide Before You Start
- Business Plan Step-by-Step
- Business Planning Guide
- What Is A Business Plan
- StartUp Nation
- eCommerce Business Startup (PDF)
Marketing
- 42 Low-cost Ways to Promote Your Business
- Elevator Pitch Essentials by Chris O’Leary
- Small Business Marketing Tips
- Business Research
- Labor Market Information Center
- Presentation Tips (PDF)
Financing
- How To Tell How Much It Will Cost
- Financing Your Business
- Accounting Basics
- How to Estimate Start-up Costs
- Start-up Costs Worksheet (PDF)
- Business Expense Worksheet (PDF)