The contest is being held in the country for the first time, giving Indian small businesses the opportunity to win a grant of Rs 15,00,000.
The contest is designed to provide small businesses the inspiration and financial resources to take their business global, helping them to grow their footprint and sharpen their competitive edge. Originally launched in the US, the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest expanded to reach customers in additional countries last year, with contests in Brazil, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore and the UK in addition to the US. This year, the contest also makes its debut in India, China, and Italy.
Among last year’s winners was Singapore-based company, RedWhite Apparel, whose founder, a keen cyclist, set out to produce high-performance but affordable long-distance cycling bib shorts. As well as Singapore, the company already had a presence in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Taiwan. Winning the contest enabled it to explore opportunities to expand further afield to Australia, Europe and the USA.
“At FedEx, we believe the spirit of entrepreneurialism is what drives SMEs to take their business to the next level,” said Nathalie Amiel-Ferrault, vice president, Marketing and Customer Experience Operations, FedEx Express.
“We are now living and working in the digital economy. The huge array of digital tools and channels available today makes it easier for small businesses to extend their reach internationally to find new customers and grow their businesses in the global market. I encourage all small businesses in India with passion and ideas to take their business global, to take part in this contest.”
How To Enter
The contest is open to all for-profit Indian small businesses that have been operating for a year or more. Between, April 25 – May 23, contestants can submit their business stories online at fedex.com/grantcontest/in for the judges’ consideration. In June, the 10 shortlisted entries will be announced and invited to present a live pitch of their business story. The contest winner will be announced in July. The grant winner will be awarded the Grand Prize of Rs 15,00,000.
Source: BW Disrupt