The city of Highland, partnered with the Metro East Small Business Development Center, is giving away over $50,000 in prizes to local startups who are incorporating technology in their business plans in ways that enhance a product or service. The winner of the Highland Gigabit Challenge will receive $15,000 while the runners’ up will receive $5,000 in cash. Additional prizes for the top three contestants include startup funds, legal services, office space, state-of-the-art gigabit Internet service, branding and marketing services and support via Highland’s Entrepreneurship Program.
The purpose of the the competition is to:
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Identify and develop 3 tech-focused “high-growth” startups
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Increase awareness of Highland’s Gigabit infrastructure
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Continue to develop Highland’s technology infrastructure and support systems
“We want to attract high-growth startups who make use of technology in their venture,” said Lisa Peck, Highland Economic Development and Marketing Coordinator. “We’re one of a limited number of communities in the U.S. of this size who have invested in the infrastructure necessary to support state-of-the-art gigabit Internet service, therefore we are in a unique position to offer this benefit to competition winners.”
Entering the Gigabit Challenge is one of Blayzer’s very own clients OneLegacy.com, an online community that connects and inspires people through sharing stories about personal legacies and those of loved ones. We wish you the best of luck!
Applications are being accepted through October 27th and winners will be announced on December 12th. For more information or to enter online Visit the Highland Gigabit Challenge Webpage or contact Peck at (618) 654-3592 or lpeck@highlandil.gov.