Applications Now Open for the August 2024 StartupSac Warm-Up Pitch Cohort!

We’re happy to announce that applications for the August 2024 StartupSac Warm-Up Pitch cohort are now open! If you’re a startup based in Sacramento or its surrounding counties with a scalable business model and aspirations for investment, this is your golden opportunity to refine your pitch and connect with potential investors.

Program Details

This cohort is part of an ongoing series of events made possible by an Innovation Grant from the City of Sacramento. StartupSac is dedicated to empowering local startups and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Sacramento region. This August 2024 cohort is just one of several opportunities to join a cohort this year.

Requirements to Participate

  • Your company (or one of its founders) must reside within Sacramento, El Dorado, Placer, Sutter, Yolo, or Yuba County.
  • Preference will be given to companies or founders residing within the City of Sacramento.
  • Your company should be scalable, such as SaaS, CPG, deep tech, etc. Service and “mainstreet” businesses are typically not considered scalable.
  • Your company must be investible (venture-backable) and interested in raising investment capital in the near future.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: Monday, July 15
  • Notification of Selection: Wednesday, July 17
  • 30-Minute Zoom Info Session:  Tuesday, July 23, 5:30 PM
  • Workshop Dates:
    • First Session: Wed, August 6, 5:30-7:30 pm at Bloom Workspaces in Sacramento
    • Second Session: Wed, August 13, 5:30-7:30 pm at Bloom Workspaces in Sacramento
    • Third Session: Wed, August 20, 5:30-7:30 pm at Bloom Workspaces in Sacramento
  • Warm-Up Pitch Mock Investor Salon Competition: Thursday, August 29, 5 – 8 PM in Sacramento

Get Ready for a Transformative Journey

Selected candidates will embark on an immersive journey at Bloom Workspaces, refining pitch decks and presentation prowess. Culminating in the Warm-Up Pitch Mock Investor Salon Competition, finalists compete for non-cash prizes, including an exclusive meeting with Moneta Ventures, and invaluable networking opportunities. Elevate your pitch and fundraising prospects with direct access to seasoned investors and mentors. Seize this chance to refine your pitch, network effectively, and position your startup for success.

Sacramento Valley SBDC Partnership

Those accepted into the cohort will have a unique opportunity to receive 1-on-1 pitch coaching from the Sacramento Valley SBDC. The partnership provides access to pitch coaches with startup and fund raising experience. The first and second place companies from the May 2024 cohort both took advantage of this bonus resource!

Prizes!

Winning at the Warm-Up Pitch competition not only opens doors to investment opportunities but also unlocks a range of valuable prizes for the top performers. The first-place winner will have the opportunity to pitch directly to venture capital firm Moneta Ventures.

But that’s not all—both first and second place winners will be invited to a 90-minute Group Sales Coaching Call with Scott Sambucci, founder of SalesQualia.. With over 25 years of enterprise sales, marketing, and product management experience, including successful stints at three startups and two publicly-traded companies, Scott brings a wealth of practical wisdom to the table.

Furthermore, winners will receive two months of free coworking at Bloom Workspaces, conveniently situated in the heart of Midtown Sacramento. These prizes are designed to propel startups toward further success, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.

How to Apply

Ready to elevate your startup? Submit your application by July 20, 2024, for consideration. Don’t miss this chance to take your venture to the next level! If accepted, there is a nominal fee of $49 to participate.

Apply Now!

 

May 2024 Warm-Up Pitch Cohort

May 2024 Warm-Up Pitch Cohort: Track Rabbit, Buddy, Liveria App, King for the Comments, Demotu, Red Line Safety, NutraCompass, and CAGED.

Success Stories: From Pitch to Funding

Discover the success stories that have emerged from our program, showcasing the tangible impact of the Warm-Up Pitch initiative. Eyerate, now known as Edge, stands out with an impressive $5.8 million in funding secured, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in fostering growth and investment. Joining them are fellow alumni such as JAPA, PairAnything, Modern Football Technology, Core Impact, and more, each carving their paths to success through strategic networking and refined pitching skills.

Interested in learning about more events happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!

 

Thank You To Our Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor

City of Sacramento

 

Gold Sponsor