In 2005, Guardian Bank and the Chamber teamed up to create a competition that encourages excellence in the planning stages of new businesses and ensures that more local businesses succeed. At the end of the eight month long competition, the winner receives $15,000 in start-up capital from Guardian Bank and thousands of dollars of in-kind services from Chamber members. In turn, winners must commit to hiring university or technical college graduates, which creates jobs that keep graduates in Valdosta. For a full list of details download the application packet.

Donnee Upson of i2o Technologies was named the 2012 Winner of the Guardian Bank Business Plan Competition

2012 Competition Angel Sponsors

Business Plan Competition Partners

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Anne Barnas and Megan Smith

were the proud winners of the first Guardian Bank Business Plan Competition

"Working with a business coach assigned by the Chamber, and attending numerous seminars, classes and after-hours events helped me to broaden my business knowledge and find the courage to go forward with my plans."