Maybe it’s just me, but these sorts of contests seem to be a win-win scenario for the companies involved. Count up the total cost of prizes (including the experiences) and you’re probably significantly under a million dollars. Let’s just say the entire cost of the effort (marketing and such) is $3M.

That’s the same price as a 30 second Super Bowl commercial.

Which gives a longer, more positive buzz for a company?

I’m really surprised that more companies don’t do this – it’s great PR *AND* it’s good for society.