Enterprize finalists unveiled

The finalists of Enterprize, the University of Queensland’s Business School competition, have been unveiled.

The competition, now in its 10^th year, offers $100,000 in seed funding to the best business plan presented to a panel of judges.

There are seven finalists – Aviator, Avaxxas, Lachesis, Counselink, KneeCo and ReadCloud and Southern Innovation.

Finalists span a range of fields, including an eHealth connectivity service, a needle-free vaccine delivery solution and a hands-free device control system.

The shortlist must submit a business plan online by September 15, with a pitch day taking place October 20.

Enterprize will be judged by professor Paul Greenfield, vice-chancellor of University of Queensland, Bob Christiansen, VC fund director, Bruce Scott, partner of NBC Capital, Stuart Gow, manager of VC Attraction and Anne-Marie Birkill, executive director of OneVentures.

Professor Iain Watson, academic dean and head of University of Queensland Business school, says: “This year Enterprize received a record number of entries from entrepreneurs in diverse sectors throughout Australia which demonstrates Australia’s commitment to producing innovative ideas, products and business models.”

“A panel of dedicated judges from the innovation sector will support entrants throughout the submission process culminating in a formal presentation process where entrants will have their business plan reviewed by potential investors.”

“Enterprize is responsible for launching dozens of successful businesses including CoolMe, Bilexys and Codesion and UQ Business School is confident the 2010 winner will also be a hot commercialisation prospect.”