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Watertown, SD Business Plan Contest Winner Focuses on Cancer Support

Watertown, SD – January 17, 2025 -  In late fall 2024, participants of the Small Business Basics class in Watertown, SD competed in a business plan contest to showcase their entrepreneurial ideas. Among the many innovative businesses, Carrie Holden emerged as the winner with her compelling business plan for a much-needed non-profit dedicated to cancer support groups in the region.
Holden’s vision is to fill a critical gap in local healthcare and community services. Currently, there are no cancer support groups in the Watertown area tailored specifically to this population. Her non-profit will aim to offer resources, emotional support, and a sense of community for individuals and families navigating the challenges of cancer.
“This course really helped me better understand some of the aspects of business that I didn’t know about,” Holden said. “I just worked hard to put together a solid plan, but I didn’t think I’d win! I’m so excited.”
As the contest winner, Holden received $500 in Chamber Bucks, a membership to the Watertown Chamber of Commerce, and free advertising once her business is up and running, all generously donated by the Watertown Chamber of Commerce.
The business plan contest, which was part of the Small Business Basics course, gave participants the chance to refine and develop their businesses or potential business. The course took place over six weeks and is based on having experts come and talk about various components of business, topics ranging from marketing and web design to taxes and choosing a CPA .
Holden is excited to begin the next steps of launching her non-profit and looks forward to serving an underserved population in the Watertown area. She is already fundraising and collaborating with healthcare providers in the region, she is on track to establish a vital support system for local cancer patients and their families in the months ahead.