All entries will be judged by a panel of professionals from private business and the academic and venture capital communities. The winner will be the business plan that has the highest potential for success in the 50+ market. The main judging criteria:

1. Problem Statement and Solution
   
   
2. Market Opportunity What is the market opportunity?
• Why is there a need for this company's solution?
• How big is the addressable market?
  
  
3. Proposed Product/Services
• What is the company's solution?
• Does the company have a defensible and proprietary approach to its business?
• How can this company achieve a leadership position in the market?
• How does the company plan on penetrating the market?
  
  
4. Competition
• What does the market look for?
• Who would be the initial competitors and who would be likely competitors in the future?
• What is the company's unique competitive advantage?
• What are the hurdles to entering the business?
  
  
5. Business Model
• What is the business model?
• How much capital is required to break even?
• How scalable is the business?
• Is the business model financially viable?
  
  
6. Management/Founders
• What is the background of management or proposed management for this type of company?
• Is there industry expertise and prior success among the management/founding team?

Decisions of judges are final. Grand Prize Winner will be notified by phone and/or e-mail on or about April 14, 2004. Grand Prize will be shipped within one month of winner notification and address verification.