Rita Chappelle, The Examiner
2007-03-08 08:00:00.0
Current rank: Not ranked

LAUREL, Md. -

Laurel resident Dana Greaves, 26, has been named one of the four top finalists in Microsoft’s Ultimate Challenge Contest designed to launch a business start-up.

Greaves grew up in Silver Spring and graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with a major in visual culture and a minor in chemistry. Her concept is made-to-order organic beauty products, including scrubs, masks, body polishers, moisturizers and toners. Her idea hit a chord with Microsoft, which selected her entry out of more than 5,000.

The winner will receive $100,000 in start-up capital, a rent-free storefront in New York City, including the newly launched Microsoft Office Accounting Express 2007, customized software services and the use of an accountant, all for one year.

“When I saw the contest it was like, wow, this is the opportunity I was looking for to develop my business ideas,” Greaves said.

Microsoft started the contest as a way to help launch a small business that needed cash, software and professional services to get its idea out of the gate. The total prize package is valued at more than $250,000.

“This contest enables us to help launch a small business and the more new businesses the more potential business for us,” said Karan Khanna, director of marketing for Microsoft. “Any start-up can be up and running within 15 minutes using this software.”

To vote for Greaves, go to www.ideawins.com and vote online. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, March 13 on NBC’s “Today Show.”

rchappelle@baltimoreexaminer.com