Lundquist Center Venture Quest

Undergraduate Dates, Deadlines, and Info

Venture Quest is an investment competition for students of the Lundquist College of Business and the University of Oregon. The Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship hosts two Venture Quest competitions each year--one for graduate students and one for undergraduate students. Cash prizes are awarded to winning teams. The Graduate Venture Quest typically happens at the end of the fall term in December. The Undergraduate Venture Quest competition is held during spring term. The undergraduate competition includes tracks for business majors and business minors.

The Venture Quest format involves each team giving a presentation on their venture to a panel of judges consisting of business professionals selected from the business community. During which judges may ask questions requiring teams to defend their concept and plan under live-fire conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to take one of the classes to compete in Venture Quest?

To compete in the Graduate Venture Quest you must register and complete an MBA-level business planning course. However, for business minors competing in the Undergraduate Venture Quest, this is not a requirement. But it is strongly encouraged.

Is our class grade affected by participating in the competition?

These are two different activities with two different agendas. The process of developing the business plan is completed within the associated course. The grade you receive within class is therefore completely separate from competing in the Venture Quest. However, you will use feedback from the grading process to improve your plan and presentation for the Venture Quest.

How many teams typically compete in each Venture Quest?

The number of teams competing is determined through entry into a qualifying submission process. Each Venture Quest event may vary as to the number of competing teams. Typically, each Venture Quest event will be limited to eight qualifying teams.

Do you have to have an existing business idea to take part in this competition?

Not at all. Teams are usually formed the first week of a course. During this time, business ideas will be presented and the instructor will help create diversified teams. In other words, if you don't have an idea but have strong finance or marketing capabilities, you will be a great asset to any team.

I am a business minor that has started writing a business plan. How can I enter the Venture Quest?

You need to follow the same criteria and guidelines as BA 410 students. Make sure you submit the Intent to Compete form by the prescribed deadline.

Who gets the award money?

Teams are required in advance to submit payment information to the Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship. Unless otherwise specified, award money will be distributed equally among team members.

The Venture Quest looks like a lot of work. Is it really valuable?

Whether you are going to launch your own business venture now or in the future (or even work for an existing company), the development, communication, and defense of a business plan could be the most valuable business skill you learn at the University of Oregon. Ask any employer or investor.