Staples online competition yields big response

Framingham, Mass. -- Staples is letting the public help determine the top three winners of its “Make Your Idea Happen” contest, which allowed entrepreneurs to share their ideas for a chance to receive all the products they need to bring their business to life. The retailer received more than 16,000 entries online and via Facebook.



The contest was announced in early January, and entrants were asked to submit a 100 word or less overview of their idea. Staples narrowed the submissions down to 10 finalists.

Voting is open to the public from April 3 through April 16 on the Staples Make Your Idea Happen Contest website or Facebook tab. Consumers can cast one vote per day and all voters will be entered to win one of three $100 Staples gift cards. Voting is open until April 16 with the winner to be announced on April 22.



"The enormous response shows the creativity, innovation and spirit in the small business community," said Tim Williams, Staples director of social media. "We're thrilled to share these great ideas and look forward to helping the winners make more happen."



The top three winners will receive consulting sessions with small business experts who will offer advice on how winners can "make more happen." In addition, a combination of Staples gifts cards and cash will be given to the top finalists at a value of $25,000 for the grand prize, $15,000 for the first prize and $10,000 for the second place prize. Each of the remaining finalists will receive a combination of Staples gift cards and cash in total valued at $5,000.