The competition, operated by ACE and presented by CIBC, celebrates the commitment, determination and achievements of student entrepreneurs.
Through this annual program, a platform is created for young business leaders to network with like-minded students, showcase their business on a regional and national stage to top executives, receive relevant training and leverage valuable mentorship opportunities to accelerate the growth of their business.
"This is an incredible opportunity for student entrepreneurs to gain exposure for their businesses and to network with a group of like-minded, successful entrepreneurs," said Amy Harder, president of ACE. "We strongly encourage all student entrepreneurs to come forward and apply for the unique opportunity to showcase their business on a provincial, regional, national and international stage."
Nominations and self-nominations are now being accepted online at www.acecanada.ca and will close on Dec. 12. The competition is open to full-time students at Canadian universities or colleges who are running their own businesses.
Twelve provincial champions will be named in January, earning the right to represent their province at one of three regional competitions held in Calgary, Halifax and Toronto. Regional champions will then move on to the final round of competition taking place at the ACE National Exposition, May 4 to 6, in Toronto.
Each provincial champion will receive complimentary lodging and travel to attend their regional event. Regional champions will receive a $1,000 cash prize plus complimentary lodging and travel to the ACE National Exposition, and the national champion will receive a $10,000 cash prize. If eligible, he or she will also represent Canada at the 2009 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards.