Competition Format
Event structure.
Preparation
30 minBoth team members receive the case study. Divide the analysis, identify the key problem and sub-issues, and build a cohesive recommendation. You may use the printed case and scratch paper provided.
Presentation
15 minPresent your analysis and solution to the judges panel. Split delivery evenly. Use clear structure: situation overview, alternatives considered, recommended solution, and implementation steps.
Q&A
5 minJudges ask clarifying or challenge questions. Both members should be ready to answer any aspect of the case. Stay composed and defend your recommendations with data from the case.
Performance Indicators
What you'll be tested on.
Business model analysis and validation
Market opportunity assessment
Startup financing and bootstrapping
Pivot vs. persevere decisions
Go-to-market strategy
Risk analysis for new ventures
How to Prepare
Preparation framework.
01
Master PI lists for your cluster + BA Core
Both members should know all relevant PIs cold. Questions from judges often test PI knowledge directly.
02
Develop a team case-cracking framework
Agree on a shared structure: problem statement → root causes → alternatives (at least 2) → recommendation → implementation → metrics for success.
03
Practice splitting the presentation evenly
Each member must speak substantially. Assign sections, but both must understand the full case, judges direct questions to either member.
04
Work through past cases
Request sample cases from your advisor or use DECA's official resources. Time the 30-min prep and 15-min presentation.
05
Study together, take the objective test seriously
The objective test score is averaged, so a weak score from one member pulls both scores down.
Sample Scenario Themes
Representative topics.
Not official DECA scenarios, representative themes based on past competitions.
Should a startup pivot after poor early traction?
How to scale a successful product to new markets
Evaluating a partnership vs. acquisition opportunity
Deciding on pricing for a new product launch
Addressing a cash flow crisis in a growing startup
Competition Tips
Notes from experienced competitors.
Apply lean startup vocabulary: MVP, product-market fit, burn rate, runway.
Show that you can balance innovation with financial pragmatism.
Use the Business Model Canvas as a mental framework, judges expect structured analysis.
Ready to prep for ETDM?
Practice exams for Entrepreneurship · Review Entrepreneurship + BA Core performance indicators · Roleplay framework.