Start-Up Business Plan

Prepare a full written project according to DECA's guidelines. This document is scored independently by judges before you arrive on-site.

Present the highlights of your written entry to the judges. Focus on key findings, your decision-making process, and measurable outcomes or projections.

Judges ask questions about your entry. Understand every section deeply, questions often probe your assumptions, data sources, and implementation plan.

Read DECA's official guidelines thoroughly

Each written event has a specific format outlined in the DECA Guide. Page limits, required sections, and formatting standards must be followed exactly.

Choose a meaningful, real-world topic

Judges reward authentic research with measurable data. Choose a topic you can actually research and document well.

Start the written entry early

Plan for multiple drafts. Have your advisor and peers review it. Written entries are scored before you arrive, they determine whether you advance.

Prepare a tight 10-minute pitch

The presentation is your highlight reel. Practice a structured opening, a concise walk-through of key findings, and a strong close.

Anticipate Q&A deep dives

Judges will probe your data sources, methodology, and assumptions. Know every number in your entry and why you made each decision.