| Top30Under30: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the judges looking for in selecting the Top30Under30?
There are several factors as stated above that are considered when selecting the winners from the 35 finalist—business success being just one. We also want to ensure we have a diverse group of finalists in terms of business niches, gender, ethnic background, and geographic location. Finally, we look for compelling stories—such as interesting business strategies or obstacles overcome. The Awards is, if nothing else, a spur to entrepreneurs to raise their game.
How are the Top30Under30 selected?
Top30Under30, Branson School of Entrepreneurship and the jury will review all vetted nominations from both Public and the Business community. Final judging is made up of two rounds. The Project Team of Top30Under30 with the help of Branson School of Entrepreneurship will review documents, ask questions of the nominators and create a list of semifinalists. Additional investigation and due diligence is performed on these semifinalists. Top30Under30 and the Branson School of Entrepreneurship will then produce a short list of thirty-five finalists to the Final Judges. The judges then consider the 35 finalists at a live telecast in Tinapa Business Resort in October 2008 where they will be quizzed live on-stage by the judges about their business and why they deserve the coveted honour to be named as part of the Inaugural Top30Under30 Class of 2008. During the live telecast, a specially invited audience of 400 guests and VIPs will vote for the candidate that has impressed them most, and the persons who will make the list via an electronic vote. The ultimate decision on who makes it to the list rest on the Panel of Judges.
Can I provide supporting letters?
Letters in support of your nomination can be submitted, but are not required. Letters should be e-mailed to Tunji Olaogun, Program Director, at tunji@top30under30.com. Make sure the supporting letter include the contact information and relationship of the person writing the letter to the application.
Can I submit other supporting documentation (awards, certificates, etc.)?
Due to the number of nominations we are expecting, we can’t accept other supporting documents. Awards, designations, and other honors should be mentioned in the application. The Top30Under30 Team will contact you if clarification or additional information is needed.
Why Tinapa, Nigeria?
The presence of Top30Under30 in Tinapa, which opened in April 2007, will be a welcome boost towards this important national initiative in Nigeria. It will help to establish it as a preferred conference venue and give it international exposure. More information at: www.tinapa.com Subsequent editions of the Top30Under30 will take place in different African countries depending on the feasibility of staging such event and local support in place and to give a truly pan-African flavour.
Who owns Top30Under30?
Top30Under30 is owned by Thoughtworks, an ideas, non-governmental organization registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria. The mandate of Thoughtworks is to promote entrepreneurship among young people by providing them with the tools and resources required to succeed. Top30Under30 is staffed by a group of young people (obviously under 30) with intercontinental project management experience, and passionate about the role of entrepreneurship in shaping Africa’s future.
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