Middleton Business Plan Competition
Showcase Your Ideas, Compete, and Win.
The Middleton Business Plan Competition, hosted on the University of North Dakota campus, is open to all undergraduate and graduate UND students, regardless of major. The competition provides a unique opportunity for students to turn their ideas into actionable business plans, gain hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, and receive valuable feedback from experienced judges.
Participants sharpen critical skills such as strategic thinking, communication, and problem-solving while competing for cash prizes that can help launch their ventures. Beyond the prizes, the event allows students to network with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, build confidence presenting in a professional setting, and prepare for careers in business, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
This inclusive platform encourages creativity, fosters collaboration, and supports the next generation of student innovators at UND.
Competition Overview
The Middleton Business Plan Competition is an in-person event where student teams present their business plans to a panel of expert judges. Each presentation is 20 minutes, followed by a 20-minute Q&A session. Teams are required to attend the entire event on the final presentation day to remain eligible for prizes.
The competition includes semi-final and final rounds, judged by experienced professionals—preliminary rounds feature at least three judges per team, and the final round includes five judges. All presentations take place in Barry Auditorium (Nistler 110), providing a professional setting for students to showcase their entrepreneurial skills and receive valuable feedback.
Prizes
The Middleton Business Plan Competition offers students the opportunity to compete for significant cash prizes totally potentially up to $25,000, with final amounts determined by the judging team. Awards recognize excellence across multiple categories, and may include:
- Best Overall
- Runner-Up
- Second Runner-Up
- Most Innovative/Highest Growth Potential
- Social Impact
- Best Undergraduate Team
These prizes celebrate creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial potential, helping students bring their business ideas to life.
UND’s 2025 Middleton Business Plan Competition brought bold ideas and inspiring entrepreneurs
to the stage! Congratulations to the two winners, Cooper Johnson and Bella Peterson!
A huge thank you to Tom & Konnie Middleton for their support in making this unforgettable
experience possible!
Contact
For more information contact sanjay.goel@UND.edu or sheila.hanson@UND.edu