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$500,000 up for grabs in the 2025 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge


The 2025 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge, a highly anticipated business competition, is offering a total prize pool of $500,000, providing local entrepreneurs with a unique opportunity to scale and grow their businesses. Sponsored by the WT Enterprise Center and the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), the challenge is open to businesses located in Potter and Randall counties, with up to $100,000 in awards available for winners.

Business owners looking to expand their operations outside of the Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)—which includes Armstrong, Carson, Oldham, Potter, and Randall counties—are encouraged to apply. To enter, business owners must first attend one of seven mandatory orientation sessions starting on February 3. These sessions will cover eligibility requirements and the program's schedule.

Brian Enevoldsen, managing director for the WT Enterprise Center, shared his enthusiasm for the challenge: “We’re excited to kick off the 2025 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge. This program continues to succeed thanks to the support from Amarillo’s mayor, city council, the Amarillo Economic Development Corp., and our incredible community. Our community’s collective dedication to driving economic development ensures scalable companies have access to the resources they need to grow and succeed.”

Administered by the WT Enterprise Center and funded by the AEDC, the Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge aims to provide entrepreneurs with the guidance, tools, and capital needed to scale their businesses. Participants will receive coaching and assistance in creating a comprehensive five-year business plan focused on expanding their reach beyond the Amarillo MSA.

Kevin Carter, president and CEO of the AEDC, emphasized the importance of the challenge: “The Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge is essential to the Texas Panhandle when it comes to fostering job creation and promoting sustainable economic development. The success of past winners demonstrates the lasting impact of this program, and we’re eager to see more businesses benefit in the years ahead.”

Additionally, participants will have access to free resources from America’s Small Business Development Center at West Texas A&M University. The center offers valuable assistance in developing business plans, financial projections, and conducting market research.

Last year, the EnterPrize Challenge awarded $225,000 to three local businesses: Legacy Monument Co., Hi-Plains Civil Engineering, and Slicks Fabworks.

Dr. Amjad Abdulat, dean of the Engler College of Business, praised the competition’s role in regional economic growth: “The Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge is a crucial catalyst for regional economic growth, enabling businesses beyond the Amarillo area to prosper. This competition provides an excellent opportunity for entrepreneurs to elevate their businesses to the next level.”

Entrepreneurs interested in applying or learning more can visit the WT Enterprise Center website or contact the center at 806-651-8500 or via email at aec@AmarilloEnterPrizeChallenge.com.

For a chance to receive critical business funding and support, the 2025 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge is an opportunity no local business should miss.