If you’ve been looking for the push to start a new food business or expand your existing product line, The Big Tasty contest may be the incentive you need. Blue Ridge Food Ventures and Mountain BizWorks recently announced the contest made possible through support from the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund.
The Big Tasty contest is open to any North Carolina resident with a food product or food-related service. Entries will be judged on commercial appeal and business viability, as well as flavor, uniqueness and best use of local ingredients.Packaged meat, dairy or low-acid products are ineligible, as well as products containing more than .5 percent alcohol.
The winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize and 100 free hours of incubator time, including use of the commercial kitchen and equipment at Blue Ridge Food Ventures. Up to two additional winners will each receive $1,000 and 50 hours of incubator time. In addition, all winners will receive a free Foundations Business Planning Course through Mountain BizWorks. In total, prizes valued at more than $10,000 in cash and services will be awarded.
You can find more information about the contest and download an entry form at www.blueridgefoodventures.org. Deadline for entry is Oct. 15.