The best way by far to prepare for VCIC is to
hold an internal event at your school. Even if you
have just one entrepreneur come to pitch to two
teams with two coaches watching, going through this
process will be surprisingly rewarding. Further,
using an “event” as the vehicle for your training
gives you and your program a marketing opportunity.
This is all easier said than done. Below are some
points to consider intended to help you
realistically gauge whether or not organizing an
internal event makes sense for your situation.
CHALLENGES TO CONSIDER
- Raising money — there is no cost associated with
organizing an internal VCIC unless you choose to
provide catering or prize money
- Getting approvals as necessary from student
organization or advisor
- Choosing a date with as few conflicts as
possible in late fall or early winter
- Reserving classrooms and study rooms
- Recruiting teams, entrepreneurs and judges
CAN THE ORGANIZER ALSO COMPETE?
Yes. We recommend that you hold the event for four
person teams and plan on being the 5th member on the
team that goes to the region. Another option some
schools use is to pick the team that goes to the region
from top performing individuals (rather than sending the
winning team, which is what most schools do).
