SpAre you ready to take your startup or social impact venture up a notch? Well, look no further! The Spark Venture Competition is back, and it’s your chance to shine in the world of entrepreneurship and innovation.
A Chance at $20,000 in Cash Prizes
Hosted by the Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship during Global Entrepreneurship Week Sacramento and powered by Western Health Advantage, this annual competition offers an impresive $20,000 prize pool. If you’re an early-stage for-profit startup or a social impact champion (including non-profits), read on to find out how you can be a part of this exciting journey.
Two Tracks: For-Profit Ventures and Social Ventures
Whether you’re chasing profits or looking to make a difference, the Spark Venture Competition has a track for you.
- For-Profit Ventures: If you’re running a profit-driven startup, this is your opportunity to kick your growth into high gear.
- Social Ventures: For those on a mission to create positive social change, this track is designed to align with your impact-driven goals. Includes both social venture startups and non-profit ventures.
Big Prize Money!
There will be a total of $20,000 Awarded at the Spark Venture Competition.
- 1st Place $7,500 for each track
- 2nd Place $2,500 for each track
Why Should You Apply?
The Spark Venture Competition isn’t just about the cash prizes; it’s also a chance to network, learn, and showcase your innovation to a wider audience. This is your opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and make an impact that lasts.
Program Timeline: Don’t Miss Out!
To make sure you don’t miss your shot at funding, mentorship, and the opportunity to showcase your innovation, here’s a quick overview of the key dates:
- Applications Open: September 13
- Application Deadline: Extended to October 31
- Finalists Announced: Week of October 30
- Finalists Mentoring/Pitch Sessions – Week of October 30 and November 6
- Spark Venture Competition: November 15, from 5:00 to 7:30 pm at the Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Sacramento State.
Requirements for Applicants
- Location: Your venture must operate in the Greater Sacramento Region.
- Application: Submit an application by October 31 to enter the competition.
- Finalists: If selected as a finalist, you’ll attend a pitch mentoring workshop.
- Pitch: In the final round, present a five-minute pitch and engage in a five-minute Q&A with judges.
- Fit and Evidence: Emphasis on ventures with a problem-solution fit and evidence of product-market fit.
The competition aims to boost early-stage ventures and is particularly interested in those demonstrating real-world potential.
How to Apply: Your First Step Towards Success
Don’t wait too long! The extended deadline for applications is Tuesday, October 31, 11:59 pm. To take the first step toward sparking positive change in the world, apply now through the official Spark Venture Competition Application.
Save the Date: November 15
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 15, from 5:00 to 7:30 pm, and get ready to showcase your innovative spirit at the Spark Venture Competition, during Global Entrepreneurship Week. This event is your opportunity to further your vision and propel your venture toward greater success.
End Note: Join the Spark Venture Competition And Be Part of Something Special
The Spark Venture Competition is an annual celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship in the Sacramento region. Your participation could be the key to remarkable change in 0ur community and beyond. Remember, the journey to success begins with a single step. Take that step today by applying to the Spark Venture Competition, and let your entrepreneurial dreams take flight.
We’re excited to witness some outstanding ventures thrive during this competition, and we’ll be here, cheering you on every step of the way.
Interested in learning about more events happening in the Greater Sacramento region? Check our event listings!
