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Tradeshow

Weight
33.3%
Description
The Tradeshow is a 2-hour showcase where students present their businesses using a booth display. Judges will visit each booth to learn about the idea, ask questions, and evaluate how well the entrepreneur explains and engages. The event is also open to the public, giving students valuable real-world networking experience.
Guidelines & information
· Entrepreneurs will be allowed time to set up their tradeshow booths. Booths must be finished and students ready to begin answering questions by the time judges begin their walkthrough.
· Judges will have a few minutes to listen to each business share the highlights of their business plan and high-level details of the product or service being offered.
· Entrepreneurs will be allowed to provide samples or handouts.
· Judges will be allowed to ask questions.
· Members of the public might also be invited to the tradeshow. Entrepreneurs should be at their booth, ready to network and share with all those in attendance.
·  Networking with judges, community members, and visitors provides students the opportunity to build relationships, gather feedback, and practice promoting their business in a real-world environment. 

Please review the Tradeshow Rubric for full judging criteria.

Judging deadline
Mar 10, 2026 12:00 PM CDT

Rubric

Business Overview: Explains business, team and key roles, relevant experience, intended legal structure, product/service offered, location, timeline, funding needed, etc.
Marketing: Market research done to identify target market, plan to reach market, potential growth, competition, promotion/advertising, pricing strategy, etc.
Presentation: Poise, confidence, comprehension, quality and relevance of slides, ability to answer judge questions, proper attire, captures attention, within time limits, etc.
Booth Display: Creative, neat, easy to understand, relates to the business, engages judges, etc.
Engagement & Interaction: Effectively engages with judges and visitors, demonstrates readiness, handles questions well, and builds interest in the business.
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