For Immediate Release: January 24, 2001

San Francisco, CA – VentureConnect!2001 announces a competition for Bay Area teens ages 13-18 who have an idea for a business or a non-profit civic venture. Individuals or teams of up to three youths may participate.

After an introductory workshop on February 10, 2001, participants submit a five-page venture plan. The top 24-32 finalists win $250 and move forward to the Venture Plan Development Workshop, where they will work with mentors from top universities and corporations to further develop their plans.

Finalists pitch their plans in person to leading venture capitalists and social entrepreneurs. Winners earn prizes up to $2,500. Competitors ready to launch their ventures participate in a six-week entrepreneurial "boot camp" to learn the fundamentals of the start-up process.

To attend the introductory workshop, participants must register by Wednesday, February 7, 2001. Preliminary venture plans are due Friday, February 23, 2001.

For more information, interested teens should call (800) 276-7600, ext. 114, or visit www.BayVentureConnect.net.

Venture Connect!2001 is sponsored by the Pacific Research Institute, E-Learn Foundation, and San Francisco Independent Scholars.

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For media information or to set up an interview, please call Dawn Dingwell at (415) 989-0833, ext. 136.