Do you have a smart idea that addresses one of today’s energy, environmental or economic challenges? Are you looking for a way to secure the funding that will get your idea off the ground? Cleantech Open has an opportunity for you that could land you up to $100,000 in cash as well as nation-wide press and recognition.

Cleantech Open, leader in developing clean technology startups, has provided aid to 125 entrepreneurial teams, who have cumulatively raised more than $130 million in private capital and created more than 500 new clean technology jobs. How can you be a part of this? Enter into one of Cleantech Open’s two FREE competitions.

Cleantech Open Business Competition
The Cleantech Open Business Competition helps entrepreneurs scale their businesses for national and global impact. All entrants, regardless of whether or not they win, receive expert feedback for their ideas, one-on-one mentoring and admission to special seminars and symposia that help entrepreneurs locate additional team members, learn about idea creation and share best practices. And for the winner, there are the large cash prizes, not to mention national press coverage and wide recognition for his or her work.

You can register your interest in competing in the 2010 competition by visiting Cleanteach Open online. By registering early, you’ll gain a head start on developing your team and learning the skills you'll need to win. 2009 Competition Semifinalists include innovators like RoofRay (creators of a software that provides real-time assessments of a property’s solar potential) and Green Lite Motors (developers of a commuter vehicle prototype that delivers 100 mile per gallon efficiency), among other green enterprises.

Cleantech Idea Competition
In addition to its renowned Business Competition, this year Cleantech began an Idea Competition. The winner of this competition year will receive a prize package of mentoring services and $100,000 grand prize. To enter, you need only submit your innovative idea online in the form of a business pitch that answers five basic questions that detail why your idea will be a smashing success.

All Cleantech Open competition submissions must fall under one of 6 clean technology categories, including:
Air, water and waste
Energy efficiency
Green building
Renewable energy
Smart power, green grid and energy storage
Transportation

In addition to contestants, Cleantech Open actively seeks sponsors and mentors.  Visit them online to learn more about these exciting green opportunities!

Submitted by Audrey Iffert, University Innovation Fellow, Arizona State University