Calling all young entrepreneurs.

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is accepting applications for the 2013 edition of the BDC Young Entrepreneur Award.

If you are an entrepreneur aged 18 to 35, you could win a $100,000 grand prize by presenting a turning point your company has reached and the solution you are proposing to take your business to the next level.

Michel Bergeron, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Public Affairs at BDC says the BDC Young Entrepreneur Award is a great venue to shine a spotlight on some of the challenges young business owners face today.

“All companies reach a turning point,” says Bergeron. “Some may choose to tap into new markets by implementing an internet strategy. Others may decide to acquire new equipment that will increase their overall profitability. Recognizing challenges early on and having a plan to tackle individual turning points is important for business and should rank high on an entrepreneur’s agenda."

Bergeron believes the experience will bring finalist exposure, public support and access to people and resources that could help their company grow.

"As impressive as the monetary awards may be, a better reason to compete is to get noticed by potential customers and investors.”

Entrants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents responsible for the daily management of a Canada-based business for at least two years as of December 31, 2012, and must hold at least 20 per cent of the company’s capital stock. Contest closes April, 2.

A second prize will also be awarded to the runner up, with a value of $25,000 in consulting services.

Click here for more details on the 2013 BDC Young Entrepreneur Award. To enter click here.