Level Up Pitch Competition aims to empower entrepreneurial spirits with capital support to take your business to the next level.
Level Up Pitch Competition is Sponsored by Proctor & Gamble
YWCA’s Living the Dream Center for Entrepreneurship presents “Level Up! Women’s Small Business Conference and Pitch Competition,” an event of networking, education and supporting entrepreneurs in the Lower Cape Fear. This in-person conference and pitch competition provides opportunities for women entrepreneurs to connect, strategize and grow.
FAQs
What is a Pitch Competition?
A Pitch Competition is a contest where entrepreneurs present their business (service/product) to a panel of judges in hopes of winning capital (funds) to support their business. Companies are judged on clarity, market opportunity and traction to date.
When is the Pitch Competition?
May 14, 2024, 1 - 4:30 pm.
Who is eligible to participate?
All are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to YWCA program participants and historically underserved founders.
I just turned in my application. What is next?
Your application will go under review, and if you have been selected to advance to the final round, you will be notified on April 8, 2024. If selected, you will participate in the Pitch Competition on May 14, 2024.
How many finalists get to pitch?
Up to 5 finalists will be chosen. May 14, 2024, 1 - 4:30 pm, finalists will present to a panel of judges.
Can I apply if my business still needs to be registered?
No. All businesses will need to be incorporated and have an EIN.
I have a business idea, but I have yet to launch it. Can I still apply?
No. Only businesses that are incorporated may apply.
Does my business need to be in the United States?
Yes.
What are the Pitch Competition prizes?
Over $15,000 in cash prizes.
What types of business is the competition looking for?
We are seeking startup and growth businesses with the potential for success.
How do I apply?
You can Apply Here
Do I need to create a log in?
No. Just Click Here to start your application.
Is there an application fee?
No, the application is 100 percent FREE.
When does the application close?
March 29, 2024 at 11:59 pm.
Is there an age requirement?
All candidates must be at least 18 years of age.
What information does the application request?
The application asks about:
General company information, such as years in business, location, etc.
Company business strategies
Team size
Company metrics
Business needs
How are applications evaluated?
Applications will be graded based on a rubric that will focus on:
The business offering a defined competitive advantage
The business goals being attainable and clearly defined
The team having a proven track record or relevant sector experience
The business model being scalable
Preference will be given to YWCA program participants and historically underserved founders.
When will you make the finalist selections?
The week of April 8, 2024.
If selected as a finalist, what happens next?
Upon selection, finalists will be notified and will have a limited time period to confirm attendance. Once confirmed, finalists will receive pitch prep materials, a pre-prep session, and the event run of show. Finalists are required to attend 3 coaching sessions (in-person or online).
Will I received any guidance throughout this process?
Finalists will receive 3 pitch prep sessions with a business coach, and pitch resources before the competition.
How long are the pitches?
You will have 3 minutes to make your pitch. There will be an additional 5 minutes of Q&A.
Are finalists pitching with slides?
Each participant will have the option to submit up to four slides max.
The four slides can only include:
Title slide with name of business and founder
Overview of business
Overview of team
Overview of traction