I was recently asked to speak for a few minutes at the launch of the 2011 Carleton University Nicol Entrepreneurial Competition about my 2010 competition experience (2nd place). A few minutes' notes turned into a decent sized post documenting my experience. Here it is:

 

Lead to Win (LTW) is a very successful program in Ottawa for entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial minded people. It's a program for individuals wanting to take their idea or business to the next level. I participated in the program this Summer (2010) and have since graduated the program. The courses offered are free and are given by some of Ottawa's best VCs, Angels and Entrepreneurs. As a participant you really get the chance to interact with others that are looking at creating a company/product. This is a great opportunity to not only learn from the presenters, but also learn from your peers. I can say that I have formed many connections in the Ottawa area that i wouldn't have had the chance to otherwise. Please see the website for more on the program's goals.

LTW is split up into 3 phases. After each phase there is a presentation on the product/service of the participant. The key is to incorporate the lessons learned form each session into the final presentation. Following the presentations, the presenters are rated (Green, Yellow, Red) by the guest judges. Participants are invited to attend the following phases based on their overall rating. Those that aren't yet ready for the next phase are strongly encouraged to a re-attend the phase. 

This is your chance to create something great and get one of these...