The winner of 2010 LAUNCH Business Creation Competition is “Ag-Defense Systems, Inc.” This company has invented a way to rapidly test foods for bacteria like E.coli and other health risks. Ag-Defense Systems, Inc. (ADS) is developing new technology and a prototype device that automates complicated laboratory sample preparation and analysis into a user-friendly portable instrument called the BioSage. With the BioSage, a non-scientific professional will be able to test food samples on-site, anywhere in the food chain, and have results within an hour … well before any consumption.

Second place went to “Nodle Products” which has invented an electronic medicine management system.

The LAUNCH Business Creation Competition was started with the cooperation of area Business Assistance Centers, Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Councils. The contest is designed provide guidance to those who have a business idea and provide the top entrepreneurs with the assistance they need to bring their business idea to fruition. The LAUNCH field was narrowed to six finalists from the tri-county area and they presented their business creation ideas to a panel of judges last night at the Peoria NEXT Innovation Center.

FIRST PLACE:
$5,000 Cash prize
3 hours of HR Consulting from Performance Growth Partners, Inc.
Free base web site and consulting from Online Innovative Creations
Golf passes from Weaver Ridge Golf Club
Professional Headshot from the V Gallery
10 hours of design services from Lincoln Office
Membership in all four chambers
Free attendance at any seminar offered by the Turner Center for 12 months

SECOND PLACE:
$500 Gift Certificate
2 hours of HR Consulting from Performance Growth Partners, Inc.
Free attendance at any seminar offered by the Turner Center for 12 months

For more details on the LAUNCH Business Creation Competition visit www.launchnewbiz.com or contact Ken Klotz, Director, Turner Center for Entrepreneurship at Bradley University at (309) 677-2992 or sbdc@bradley.edu