The EaglePlan business plan contest returned to Florida Gulf Coast University this fall as students competed for a total cash prize of $500 and the prestigious honor of being named the 2008 EaglePlan Winner. The EaglePlan competition, an initiative of FGCU Institute of Entrepreneurship, provides students with an exciting, high stakes, creative event that supports educational programs that provide entrepreneurial education in a practical and innovative manner.

The contest was open to all current FGCU students regardless of major. The students’ business plans were evaluated by a first panel of judges composed of FGCU faculty Darlene Andert, Daniel Borgia, and Alan Platt. The judges decided which three applicants would continue to the second and final round.

The three finalists had the proposed businesses evaluated on the basis of written business plan and oral presentation. A second panel of judges consisting of three Southwest Florida entrepreneurial professionals Dan Regelski and Susan Specht from the FGCU Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and local entrepreneur James Shaw evaluated the business plans.

“Free Water Solutions” was awarded first prize. The business team members are Nate Beachy, Pierre Grilo, Harrison Mayer, and Nikita Reese. Second place was awarded to “MyCollegeBookBag.com.” Members are John Baker and Michael Zecchino. Third place was awarded to “Open Water Aquaculture.” Members are Ryan Lucas, Brad McIntyre, Brad Metzger, Michael Munsell, and Rebecca Munson.

The FGCU Institute of Entrepreneurship thanks all the sponsors for making the event possible, but a special thank you goes to the following generous contributors.

Gold Eagle Sponsors were Kevin Hawkesworth, president and CEO of Shaw Development of Bonita Springs, and an anonymous donor.

Silver Eagle Sponsor is John DeAngelis-Diamond, co-founder of DeAngelis Diamond Construction of Naples.

For more, call 590-7389.