Michael Margolis, a semi-final judge and new venture mentor to teams in the social enterprise track
of New York University’s 2008 Business Plan Competition is today’s guest blogger.

Over the last few weeks, I have had the opportunity to serve as a semi-final judge and new venture mentor to teams competing in the social enterprise track. Having coached several teams already, here’s what I’d say are EIGHT KEY LESSONS for teams eager to sell their business idea in a business plan competition.

1. Explain Why YOU
People invest in people, not ideas. So give the judges/audience a sense of why you’re the right person. illustrate your commitment, knowledge, and expertise. How many years have you been doing this? How has your life experience prepared you for this endeavor? Show the judges that you are real, genuine, and passion-driven.

Please tell me more! »

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“Tell a clear, easy-to-repeat story in the first 90 seconds”
~George Simmons~

George Simmons, a partner at Derby Management, during a recent presentation
in Rhode Island on How to Present Your Business Plan. Download his 17 page
Powerpoint presentation here.

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