2013 Power Up Challenge

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Download the Power Up How to Guide >>

Did you hear? We have our first Power Up Chapter Challenge winner. Congratulations to Julio Colmenares of VaPourMD Solutions, LLC, for being the SouthWest Chapter’s Power Up winner. His company will be the first to advance to the grand finale in November to compete for a chance to win $25,000. SouthWest Chapter - Power Up Chapter Challenge Winner: Julio Colmenares VaPourMD Solutions

What is it?

The Power Up Challenge identifies promising startups and small businesses in each chapter footprint, awards a prize package to one company in each chapter footprint and awards a grand prize to one finalist. Competitors are asked to present their organizations’ stories to chapter members. These presentations should identify issues faced in the attempt to grow and create jobs and discuss successes along the way. Chapter members will vote on the winners.

Watch >> Michael Barnes and Julio Colmenares discuss Power Up on WCCB News Rising

Watch >> Power Up at the 2013 Business Showcase

Read >> We caught up with Dr. George Selembo, CEO of InfoSense and grand prize winner of the 2012 Power Up competition, to find out what it meant for his company to take home top winnings last year

Who is eligible?

Small business owners and entrepreneurs who provide innovative products and services to support the growth of Charlotte’s economy are eligible to compete. The companies must be located in Charlotte, N.C.; Charlotte Chamber members in good standing; and for-profit organizations with $1 million or less in total revenue. Franchises are not eligible.

What are the prizes and benefits?

A cash prize and package of in-kind services from Charlotte Chamber member sponsors and Power Up partners will be awarded to each chapter-level winner. The grand prize will be an additional cash prize of $25,000 provided by Duke Energy.

How do I participate?

Download the application and follow the instructions within it to compete. If you'd like to provide pro bono services to the winners or otherwise be involved, contact Cherise Walker.

You can also show your support for the competition by adding the #CLTPowerUp Twibbon to your Facebook and Twitter profiles.

Competition Dates

January 25: Postponed due to inclement weather
February 5: Power Up Kick Off Luncheon
March 1: SouthWest Chapter Power Up application deadline
April 2: SouthWest Chapter Power Up Luncheon (click to register)
April 30: SouthPark Application deadline
May 16: NorthWest Chapter
May 31: Ballantyne Application deadline
June 13: University City
July 9: SouthPark Chapter
August 1: Ballantyne Chapter
September 24: Metro Chapter
October 15: East Chapter
November 14: PowerUp Competition Grand Finale