UMKC entrepreneur competition ups prize money to $75K

For the second consecutive year, the University of Missouri-Kansas City has boosted prize money for its premier entrepreneurial competition.

Eligible student teams will now vie for $75,000 in total awards through the Regnier Venture Creation Challenge Competition and new Blue KC Healthcare Innovation Prize.

“The Regnier Venture Creation Challenge has become one of the signature events not just for the Bloch School, but for Kansas City’s entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Tony Mendes, associate director of the Regnier Institute. “The challenge is a great opportunity for students and fledgling entrepreneurs to gain experience, develop mentoring relationships and earn some vital seed capital.”

Students will compete by creating a business plan and pitching their ventures to a panel of judges. Applications are open to university students in Missouri and Kansas and current Bloch School Entrepreneurship Scholars.

Winning teams will be awarded the first prize of $20,000, second prize of $10,000, third prize of $5,000 and fourth prize of $2,500.

The inaugural Blue KC Healthcare Innovation Prize also will award first and second place prizes to an individual or team that submits a healthcare-related venture that inspires change in healthcare.

The first place winner will receive a $15,000 prize and the second place winner will receive a $10,000 prize.

“Providing affordable access to health care and improving the health of patients is at the heart of the Blue KC mission and why we are passionate about supporting next-generation innovators and entrepreneurs who are committed to finding solutions that improve patient outcomes,” said Jason Spacek, vice president and chief innovation officer at Blue KC. “The Regnier Institute’s Venture Creation Challenge is our region’s foremost forum for fostering the entrepreneurial spirit of our community and we value the inspiring ideas students will put forth that could lead to actionable, beneficial healthcare industry advancements.”

The competition also features a variety of specialty awards for the best business plan, social impact, pitch and others.

Student-led venture By Grace Designs won the competition in 2017.

The deadline for submitting business plans is April 20 and contestants will be announced on Friday, April 27. Students can get more info and apply here.