* Awards can only be won by a student from South Dakota

If the winning entry consists of a team, the prize money and scholarships will be split equally among team members. The details about how the scholarship can be redeemed are the sole discretion of each institution. 

Elevator pitches from finalists will be considered for two $250 prizes awarded at the Awards Ceremony.

• Sponsor Award – Sponsor (Dakota Plains Commercial Real Estate) will review all recorded pitches submitted by South Dakota finalists and special category winners and select the winner based on the criteria in the elevator pitch rubric.
• People’s Choice Award – During the Awards Ceremony, the audience will choose the best live elevator pitch presented on the stage by in state finalists and special category winners.  No recorded pitches will be included in this award.

SCHOOL/ADVISOR AWARDS:

Partners in Business Award– Sponsored by Angelhaus

This award emphasizes the importance of networking in the business world by recognizing teachers who incorporate BIG Idea and other networking experiences in the classroom. Three winners will be awarded $100 cash.