DO YOU HAVE A BIG IDEA?

Applications are due by Aug 16, 2021 by 5 p.m. PST and MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE.

The first year is usually the most difficult for small businesses with many startups struggling with capital, overhead expenses, permitting processes and the details of actually managing a business.

To make it easier, in 2013 the Downtown Sacramento Foundation launched the Calling All Dreamers competition to support an entrepreneur to bring their dream of opening a downtown storefront to reality. Winners of the annual competition – including Nash & Proper, Neo Escape Rooms and The Allspicery – have quickly become signature small businesses downtown, inspiring new classes of dreamers to pursue their big idea year after year.

Apply NOW!

Until August 16 at 5 p.m., share your big idea by applying for the chance to be downtown’s newest business owner. Please make sure to download the application packet here for key dates, details on application requirements, and official rules and regulations. Click here to fill out the application.

Competition at-a-glance

• APPLY – Prepare your application, business plan and 60-second video. Applications close August 16.
• DEVELOP – If selected as a semi-finalist, you will be paired with a business mentor from SCORE to build your concept and refine your winning pitch.
• WIN – If chosen to continue on as a finalist, you will further refine your business concept, while the public votes for their favorite. Following a final pitch, one winner will be selected.

Starting a successful business is hard. But it doesn’t have to be.

Every seasoned business owner will tell you that starting, maintaining and growing a successful business takes a ton of work and a ton of time. But this is your chance to fast-track your path to success by applying to Calling All Dreamers. When you’re paired with a business coach to help you navigate the ins and outs of starting a business, and when you’re provided with all the essentials you need, you cut years off your journey and kick-start your results. Even though starting a business may still be a lot of work, Calling All Dreamer empowers you to be as successful as possible.

Why apply?

This year, we’re DOUBLING the cash prize, which is now $20,000. The remainder of the prize package, valued at over $100,000, includes everything from financial planning and legal services to graphic design and marketing. This business service prize package gives you all the tools you need to start your business. Learn more here.