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Our Message

Small businesses are the bedrock of rural economies; thriving in good times, struggling when disaster strikes – a point brought home in painful and graphic detail following numerous fires in Lake County. We formed 1Team 1Dream with a clear purpose– to support and promote economic growth and stability in Lake County and to provide on-going education and opportunity to entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Join us. Help us open doors to resources that will invigorate, educate and promote success through the use of sustainable business practices including modern-day digital tools, marketing strategies, and mentoring support. Collectively we can make a meaningful difference – several businesses at a time. We welcome like-minded individuals, businesses, and civic organizations to join our team.

To learn more, please get in touch at [email protected].

Sincerely,

Maryann Schmid
Founder

Olga Martin Steele
Co-Founder

1

COMMUNITY

4

YEARS

5

BUSINESS COMPETITIONS

307

APPLICANTS

28

WINNERS & AWARDEES

434K

IN CASH PRIZES

In 2020, we launched our signature project, “Hands Up Lake County”, a business plan competition that tapped the interest of entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout Lake County. The whole community came together to support the program. Both private companies and the government went above and beyond to support this venture. In 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, we provided a total of $28,000, $50,000, $100,000, and $120,000 in cash prizes, respectively.

This 2024, we are poised to do more. It will be bigger and better with cash prizes amounting to $150,000.

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Join Hands Up Lake County

We are now accepting applications to the Hands Up Lake County business competition. Now is your chance to build your business idea and earn a cash prize to jumpstart your dream. Send your application today to join the Hands Up Lake County Business Competition 2022.

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Our Values

1Team 1Dream is dedicated to a thriving Lake County economy.

Leading Through Innovation

We use modern tools and lead through innovation. A collaborative mindset, purpose driven ideals and a commitment to innovation through specialized training and mentorship can lead to a robust business environment and successful business enterprises.

Pursuing Excellence

1Team 1Dream believes in the pursuit of excellence. An open door, a hand up, the opportunity to excel, and the prospect of a cash boost is a confidence builder – and a formula for success.

Growing By Learning

1Team 1Dream aspires to encourage learning as a life-long pursuit. Through on-going mentorship and training opportunities, small Lake County businesses and budding entrepreneurs can adapt to changing technology and innovations.

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