The Road to the International Business Plan Competition
Each year in August, the Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community hosts the Biblical Entrepreneurship International Business Plan Competition, bringing together up to five Biblical Entrepreneurs from five regions of the world—Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, and South America.
For the last five years, Kenya has dominated the competition, securing victories on behalf of Africa. However, this year, seven Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community Centers worldwide are determined to challenge Kenya’s winning streak.
To rise to the challenge, the Northwest Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community Center, based in Vancouver, Washington, recently held its first-ever graduation and business plan competition in 2025. The goal was to select and qualify its first candidate for the North America Regional Business Plan Competition, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward the international stage.
DO YOU WANT TO COMPETE IN THE NEXT BIBLICAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION?
If you’re interested in competing in the North America Regional Competition and earning a chance to compete internationally, click below to enroll in the Biblical Entrepreneurship Self-Paced Program:
MEET THE NORTHWEST REGIONAL COMPETITORS
Andy Gobble – Founder & CEO, Sotarea
Sotarea is a health benefits company dedicated to serving small businesses, with a vision to become the best option for business healthcare benefits. Andy and his partner bring over 30 years of experience in the health benefits industry, including expertise in technology and billing.
Andy believes that current healthcare solutions for small businesses are overpriced, and there is a pressing need for a cost-effective, comprehensive alternative. Sotarea is currently in the startup stage and aims to generate close to $1 million in revenue within five years.
Soorin Backer – Founder & CEO, NABi Media Production
NABi Media Production is a Christian movie production company with a mission to bring to life the often-overlooked stories of biblical women. Through a drama series, NABi seeks to offer fascinating insights into the culture, religion, and relationships of biblical times.
The goal of NABi is to reveal the heart of God and invite viewers into a deeper relationship with the Lord by sharing compelling, relatable stories that demonstrate His love and compassion in a profound way.
Currently, in the discovery stage, NABi plans to launch this year with its first major project, a movie titled Hidden Women: Sarah. The film is projected to generate $40 million in revenue.
THE JUDGES AND COMPETITION RESULTS
The 2025 Northwest Business Plan Competition featured three esteemed judges:
- Jennifer Mears – CEO of Holland Inc.
- Barry Redman – Founder of Net Zero & COO of Smart Oregon Solutions.
- Rod Friesen – Co-Founder of Hearthstone.
After hearing each competitor’s pitch, engaging in clarifying discussions, and deliberating among themselves, the judges selected Soorin Backer of NABi Media Production as the first qualified winner of the 2025 North America Business Plan Competition.
If Soorin wins the Regional Business Plan Competition, she will represent North America at the International Business Plan Competition, where she will compete for a $10,000 cash prize and the opportunity to dethrone Kenya from their reigning position.
Soorin was trained and coached through Biblical Entrepreneurship by veteran coach Debra Schlaht.
JOIN US FOR NEHEMIAH WEEK 2025!
To experience this year’s Nehemiah Week and witness the 2025 International Business Plan Competition, register today and enjoy early bird pricing!
Will Kenya hold onto its title, or will a new champion rise? Be part of the journey as we crown the next Biblical Entrepreneurship International Champion!
For more great articles that provide you with insights to help you with your entrepreneurship journey from discovery to succession, click HERE to view the Nehemiah Entrepreneurship Community’s library of Kingdom Business Leaders Resources.
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