Microsoft launches contest to find next big idea - offers major cash and NYC storefront!

Today, Microsoft has launched "ideawins.com" - a contest to find the next big small business idea. They are offering the winner $100k, a NYC storefront (another $100k) and a lot more. Looks really great. And the flash design is quite spectacular as well!

GET YOUR IDEAS IN PEOPLE.... for most of us, this could be a once in a lifetime opportunity. If you need help filling out the application, I am happy to help you. Just get those ideas in people. I know I am.

From their release:

The contest, which is live at http://www.ideawins.com/, has been designed to spur the imagination and spirit of entrepreneurism that drives small businesses. The winner -- the business with the most innovative business idea -- will receive $100,000 in business startup money, a Manhattan-area storefront for one year rent-free, and infrastructure and software to help run the business.

"We know there are lots of great ideas out there from people just waiting to start their own business, and we want to make their dream come true," said Rajat Taneja, general manager of Small Business Applications and Services at Microsoft. "The Ultimate Challenge is all about getting entrepreneurs to take steps toward living their dream and pursuing the spirit of Americana. The idea behind this contest is to galvanize entrepreneurs into action and make sure they have the right tools, such as Office Accounting Express, to translate their vision into reality."

Starting today Microsoft will review applications received through the http://www.ideawins.com/ Web site or submitted in person at upcoming Ultimate Challenge events. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 31, 2007. Submissions will be judged and scored on the following criteria: marketing approach, financial and logistic feasibility, originality, and public interest.

As part of the nationwide search, Microsoft will deploy the Ultimate Challenge Van, an RV tour that will begin its journey in Times Square on Nov. 28 and make stops in Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago and Atlanta through January. The Ultimate Challenge Van will be a destination where contestants can go to submit their applications and meet Microsoft representatives and successful local business leaders to help finalize their http://www.ideawins.com/ contest submission.