SPSW Pitch Competition

Applications close: October 6
Live Pitch Competition: November 13

Are you a startup looking to make a big impact? Do you have an innovative product or service ready to be showcased?

This is your chance to pitch your business, gain exposure to potential customers and investors, and compete for cash prizes!

Apply now

Ready to take your startup to the next level? Submit your application today and seize the opportunity to shine in the Silicon Prairie News Pitch Competition!

apply now

Competition Details

Timeline

APPLICATION PERIOD

Opens: September 9, 2024
Closes: October 6, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. CDT

COMPETITION

Semi-finalist Interviews & Live Pitch Competition: November 13, 2024

How it works

Apply: Submit your application with a 2-minute video pitch or a short written submission by October 6, 2024.
Semi-Finalists: The top 20 startups will be selected as semi-finalists and announced on October 16, 2024.
Showcase Opportunity: Semi-finalists will be invited to set up a table at the Startup Showcase, providing a fantastic opportunity to network, demonstrate your product and gain valuable feedback.
Finalists: After the semi-finalist round, five startups will be chosen to move on to the finals.
Live Pitch: Finalists will present their pitches live in front of an audience and a panel of three judges on November 13, 2024.

What’s in it for you?

EXPOSURE

Get your startup in front of investors, industry experts and potential customers.

NETWORKING

Connect with other startups, mentors, and leaders in the startup community.

FEEDBACK

Receive valuable insights and feedback to help refine your business model and pitch.

PRIZES

Compete for $10,000 cash grand prize, with a $2,500 cash prize for the people’s choice.

Competition Requirements

Eligibility

These criteria ensure that the competition targets early-stage, innovative startups ready to scale and make an impact.

Age of Business: Operating for no more than five years.
Revenue: Open to both pre-revenue and revenue-generating startups.
Product Development: Must have a minimum viable product (MVP) to demonstrate.
Location: Must be located in Nebraska.

Timeline

Sept. 9, 2024	Applications Open
Oct. 6, 2024	Applications Close
Oct. 16, 2024	Semi-Finalists Announced
Nov. 13, 2024	– Semi-Finalist Interviews – Finalists Announced – Live Pitch Competition and Startup Showcase

Application Process

Answer the questions on the submission form to help hone your pitch.
Submit a 2-minute video pitch or a 300-350 word written submission outlining your business, the problem you solve, your unique solution, and your market opportunity.

Judging Criteria

Clearly defined problem and solution
Competitive advantage
Scalability
Feasibility for success
Company presentation

Need more details?

For any questions, please contact us at info@siliconprairienews.com.

Join us in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nebraska. We can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on!