Tyler Fugazzie

Contests and competitions have long been a way to inspire excellence and encourage growth. But not all competitions are created equal—some foster rivalry and stress, while others nurture growth and confidence. The key to meaningful contests lies in their ability to create an environment where participants feel empowered to give their best effort, regardless of the final outcome.

During my time at Virtual Enterprises International (VEI), I saw firsthand how well-designed competitions could transform students into confident, capable, and skilled individuals. At VEI, competitions formed the backbone of a business simulation experience, helping students apply real-world skills in a structured, challenging, and engaging way.

Competitions Build Real-World Skills

The central competition at VEI revolved around presenting business plans. Teams of students would develop comprehensive strategies, showcasing their ability to think critically, innovate, and articulate their ideas. But this wasn’t the only area where students could shine. VEI offered competitions across a wide range of business categories, including marketing, finance, human resources, and more.

What made these competitions so impactful was their diversity. By catering to different strengths and interests, VEI created an inclusive environment where every student had the opportunity to find their niche. Whether a student excelled at crafting a financial forecast or developing a creative ad campaign, they could showcase their abilities and feel valued.

Moreover, these competitions extended beyond the classroom, giving students the chance to compete with peers from across the United States. This exposure broadened their horizons, enhanced their networks, and pushed them to think on a larger scale.

The Elements of a Thriving Competition

What separates a competition that fosters growth from one that breeds stress and exclusion? Here are some key elements that can help contests and competitions bring out the best in participants:

1. Focus on Growth Over Winning: The best competitions emphasize learning and personal growth rather than just winning. At VEI, students didn’t just walk away with trophies—they left with improved skills, deeper knowledge, and greater confidence in their abilities. Competitions should celebrate effort, progress, and creativity as much as the final outcome.

2. Inclusivity and Accessibility: A thriving competition allows everyone to participate meaningfully. Offering diverse categories or challenges ensures that participants with different strengths, talents, and interests can find their place. Inclusivity helps create a sense of belonging and encourages more people to step up and try.

3. Clear, Fair Guidelines: Competitions should be transparent and fair. Clear rules, consistent evaluation criteria, and unbiased judgment are essential for fostering trust among participants. When students know the expectations and believe the process is equitable, they’re more likely to engage wholeheartedly.

4. Constructive Feedback: Winning or losing doesn’t matter as much as what participants take away from the experience. Providing detailed, constructive feedback helps competitors understand their strengths and areas for improvement, turning every outcome into a learning opportunity.

5. Collaboration and Community: While competitions often focus on individual or team achievements, they should also promote a sense of community. VEI competitions allowed students to connect, learn from one another, and build networks that extended beyond the event itself. This collaborative atmosphere reinforced the idea that growth is a shared journey.

Beyond the Prize

The magic of competitions lies not in the prizes or rankings, but in the transformations they inspire. A well-designed contest has the power to instill confidence, ignite passions, and equip participants with skills they’ll carry into the future. It’s not about defeating others; it’s about challenging yourself and striving for your personal best.

At VEI, I witnessed the profound impact of competitions that prioritized growth, inclusivity, and real-world learning. These experiences didn’t just create winners—they created leaders, innovators, and lifelong learners.

When we design contests and competitions that encourage everyone to thrive, we redefine what it means to win. Winning isn’t just about being the best—it’s about becoming your best.

I can help you run a competition 🙂

Email me for advice or hire me for a flexible fee to help you develop a a competition that brings out the best in everyone who participates.