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Yahoo! Small Business Launches 'Dream Bigger' Contest with $30,000 Grant

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ches-dream-bigger-contest-with-30-000-grant.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 20:37 GMT by The Joplin Globe, Mo.
      Locales: California, New York, UNITED STATES

February 13th, 2026 - Yahoo! Small Business is once again opening the doors to innovation and opportunity with its annual "Dream Bigger" contest, offering a substantial $30,000 grant and invaluable mentorship to an aspiring entrepreneur poised to make a difference. This year's contest, details of which were released earlier today, aims to not just launch a business, but to cultivate ventures deeply rooted in community benefit and demonstrable positive social impact.

For years, Yahoo! Small Business has been a staunch advocate for small business growth, recognizing the vital role entrepreneurs play in driving economic progress and societal change. The "Dream Bigger" contest is a flagship initiative, specifically designed to lower the barrier to entry for individuals with brilliant ideas who may lack the initial capital or guidance to bring them to fruition. Unlike traditional venture capital routes which often prioritize rapid scalability and profit margins, "Dream Bigger" intentionally seeks businesses that prioritize purpose alongside profit.

What's New for 2026? A Deeper Dive into Social Impact.

While the core principles of the contest remain - supporting innovative business plans - this year's iteration places an even stronger emphasis on social responsibility. Judges will be looking for businesses that actively address a demonstrable need within their communities. This could take many forms: from sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact, to initiatives that create employment opportunities for underserved populations, to products or services that directly improve the quality of life for a specific group.

"We've seen incredible applications over the years," explains Emily Carter, Head of Small Business Initiatives at Yahoo!. "But we're seeing a shift in entrepreneurial thinking. More and more aspiring business owners are driven by a desire to solve problems, not just to generate revenue. 'Dream Bigger' is designed to empower those individuals and give them the platform to turn their visions into reality."

The Application Process: More Than Just a Business Plan.

Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive business plan outlining their business model, target market, financial projections, and competitive analysis. However, the contest doesn't stop there. Recognizing the power of storytelling and personal connection, Yahoo! Small Business is also requiring a short video - no more than three minutes long - explaining the entrepreneur's concept and their commitment to social impact. This video component allows the judges to get a better sense of the applicant's passion, vision, and authenticity.

The judging panel comprises seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and representatives from Yahoo! Small Business. They will evaluate submissions based on several key criteria:

• Innovation: How unique and creative is the business idea?
• Viability: Is the business plan realistic and financially sound?
• Social Impact: How effectively does the business address a community need?
• Scalability: Does the business have the potential to grow and expand?
• Presentation: How clearly and persuasively is the concept communicated?

The Prize: Seed Funding and Mentorship to Thrive.

The $30,000 grant is intended to provide a significant seed funding boost, allowing the winning entrepreneur to cover essential start-up costs, such as equipment, marketing, and initial operating expenses. But the prize doesn't end with the money. The winner will also receive a year-long mentorship program, pairing them with a successful entrepreneur who can provide guidance, support, and networking opportunities. This mentorship component is considered by many past winners to be the most valuable aspect of the contest.

Past Success Stories: From Dream to Reality.

Previous winners of the "Dream Bigger" contest have gone on to achieve remarkable success. For example, Maria Rodriguez, the 2024 winner, used the funding to launch "Bloom Local," a mobile flower shop delivering bouquets sourced from local, sustainable farms to hospitals and nursing homes, brightening the days of patients and supporting the local agricultural community. In 2025, David Lee's "Code for All" - a non-profit teaching coding skills to underprivileged youth - expanded its reach thanks to the contest's support, offering workshops in multiple cities.

How to Apply and Important Dates.

Interested entrepreneurs can find complete contest rules, eligibility requirements, and the application form on the Yahoo! Small Business website ([ https://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/dreambigger ] - This is a placeholder link). The entry deadline is May 31, 2026. Don't miss this opportunity to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into a tangible reality and make a positive impact on the world.

A Call to Action: Invest in a Brighter Future.

The "Dream Bigger" contest isn't just about awarding money; it's about investing in the future. It's a testament to the belief that innovative, purpose-driven businesses can be powerful forces for good. Yahoo! Small Business is encouraging all aspiring entrepreneurs with a vision to apply and join a community of changemakers.