Social media has made it easier than ever for aspiring entrepreneurs to get the news out on their latest and greatest ideas. Fortunately for them, though, sometimes established companies are eager enough for new blood in the engine of retail disruption that they’re willing to put the call out themselves.
That’s the mission of POS developer Revel Systems and payments processor Vantiv, as the two companies announced a partnership Wednesday (June 15) that will culminate in the “Revel Up Your Dream” contest to find the next great entrepreneur on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Entrants just have to submit a video explaining their business plans and why Revel and Vantiv should pick them, and come Revel’s annual conference in September, the winner of a $25,000 POS and hosting prize package will be announced.
It’s a fun little experiment with the power of social media that Kevin Brown, leader of direct channel development at Vantiv Integrated Payments, hopes can find someone worthy of the support.
“This contest allows us to demonstrate our combined commitment to foster new business startups,” Brown said in a statement. “The entrepreneurial vision is exciting as it challenges the norm and breaks down the barriers around how new business serves us as consumers. Both Revel and Vantiv drive the same spirit through our businesses and partnerships and we want to reward someone for doing the same. This program will manifest in career and business growth and revealing people’s unlimited potential. We can’t wait to see the videos.”
As part of the contest, Revel is also launching a “Revel Up Your Dream” blog, which will serve as a constant resource for entrepreneurial advice, tools, current events and more.