Helpful Tips
Useful Resources for Students
The following links and publications may be helpful in developing your BIG Idea Business idea.
Student Checklist
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
- Information Specific to the BIG Idea Competition
- 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)