Nextgen Business Startup

A Challenge for Young Entrepreneurs & Innovators

We will choose 10 finalist to present at the Central Valley Business Expo, happening November 6th, 2025. Apply by October 1st, 2025 to have a chance to win up to $3,000 and a 12 month mentorship to kickstart your business!

Embarking on a new business venture can be both exhilarating and daunting. That’s why our 1st place winner of this program receives comprehensive mentorship and support over a 12-month period to ensure a successful launch. Here’s what’s included:

Benefit from 7-9 scheduled meetings with experienced mentors and consultants, each specializing in key areas crucial for business success.
Receive 3-4 visits covering essential topics such as Small Business Administration (SBA) guidance, Marketing strategies, and Business Planning insights.
Engage in 2-3 visits for mentorship and networking opportunities. Connect with industry experts and like-minded entrepreneurs to expand your network and gain valuable insights.
Shadow a seasoned CEO during 2-3 visits, gaining firsthand experience and mentorship in leadership and business management.
Attend Local Government Day as our guest, providing a unique opportunity to interface with local policymakers and gain insights into the regulatory landscape.
Secure up to $3,000 in startup capital, ensuring you have the financial backing to turn your entrepreneurial vision into reality. This prize is awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, providing additional support to kickstart your journey.

The Judging Criteria

Applications will be judged on three key factors:

Is it innovative?

Is the idea unique?
Does it have a clear unique selling point?
Is the idea solving the problem in a creative way or filling a gap in the market?

Is the business feasible?

Will the venture improve people’s lives?
Will it meet social or community needs in a new way?

Is it viable?

Can the plan achieve what it states it will do?
Is the idea investment ready?
How will you use the funding if successful?

How to Apply

1. Your Idea

Create a short 60-90 second video, a PowerPoint Presentation, Canva presentation, or Business Plan.

Remember to explain how your idea meets the three criteria.

2. Apply

Hit the “Apply now” button to fill out our application form.

3. Submit

Be sure to include your video or file in the application form. If it’s a video, please include your video link in the specified field.

Be sure to submit your project by October 1st, 2025.

4. Sit Tight!

Finalists will be announced by October 17th, 2025

Eligibility

Applicants must be:

Business concept can be an Individual or in a group
Between the ages of 16 and 20 years by 9/1 2025
Residents of the Central Valley
Previous entrants are welcome to re-enter, but previous finalists are not eligible

Business proposals must:

Be legal in California
Not have the purpose of political lobbying
Be the applicant’s own idea
Not infringe on the copyright, patent or intellectual property of others
Can be submitted in English or Spanish (both written and video)

*Businesses must be pre-start (not yet conducting business)

2025 Contest Schedule

Contest submissions are open now, and the submission deadline is October 1st.

10 finalist will be announced by October 17th.

The presentation for the 10 finalist will be at the November 6th expo booth, which will consist of 2-3 minute on stage presentation in front of the judges.

Winners will be announced at the November 6th Central Valley Business Expo at 4:30pm