Contests + Startup = What?

Hello,

I am trying to have a startup and thinking of having a contest. Basically the website will give away items like gift cards for American Eagle, Games, Consoles, Hardware etc.. for participation. Participation is things like contests, activities etc..

Without getting too much into how the revenue will be earned, and whether or not this is a good idea.. (I posted my idea in front of other entrepreneurs with successful startups and VCs and they said its a really nice and serious idea and I should get on board).

Okay, now the actual question.

I am trying to make a one page website currently that accepts signups and referrals. And has Corporate information, and other information to encourage a lot of traffic via people who are already famous (like Partners program @ Youtube). I need to show investors some demographics and numbers.

Would a contest be a good idea to boost all this process? I am thinking, having a referral contest and giving away prices that would normally be available from the website (Gift cards, iPads, etc)

Also, I know this might come out as those scam sites, so what can I do to get around that? Should I mention that I am a registered company..? what else can I do?

Thanks.

Bhargav Patel
Co-Founder
PoiintsVault

What does this have to do with themes or ThemeForest?

Normally I ask questions here and everyone answers.