Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako鈥檚, (RDBN) start-up business contest is open. The business contest is for anyone 19 years and older, who has a business idea or has been operating a business for less than one year. Contestants will compete for the title of 2012 start-up business contest winner. The 2012 Grand Prize package is worth over $10,000.

The RDBN is divided into six contest areas. A finalist from each area is selected based on their submitted business plan. Each area finalist will receive a prize package, donated by businesses and organizations in the region, two tickets to the gala dinner, and registration to the Business Forum in Smithers on Oct. 16 & 17. Finalists will deliver a three minute presentation at the business forum, followed by an interview with the selection panel. The panel will select the grand prize winner who will be announced at the gala dinner on Oct.16.

The 2011 Start-up Business Contest winner, Cheryl McRae of Dog Digs, a dog boarding and daycare business in Telkwa, spoke of her experience. 鈥淲hat a great opportunity this contest is for start-up businesses! My personal experience from last year was extremely positive - all the hard working people who set this event up, the informative and entertaining speakers, the delicious dinner provided, my friendly and supportive fellow contestants, and being chosen the winner all made for a very memorable day. I would highly recommend participating.鈥�

Contest entries are accepted until Wednesday, Sept. 26. For detailed contest information, contact Corrine Swenson, Regional Strategic Development Analyst for the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako at 1-800-320-3339.

Full contest details are also located on the RDBN website, www.rdbn.bc.ca , at Chambers of Commerce within the RDBN and at Community Futures in Houston and Vanderhoof.